$25,000 donation will aid American Red Cross efforts
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation has donated $25,000 to support American Red Cross relief efforts in Middle Tennessee and Kentucky following extensive damage from multiple tornadoes over the weekend.
“We are saddened by the devastation last weekend’s tornadoes caused in Middle Tennessee and Kentucky,” said Dalya Qualls, executive director of the foundation. “Our thoughts are with the communities affected by this disaster, particularly the residents who have lost loved ones. We know recovery will take some time, and we hope this support will help those efforts.”
On Saturday, multiple tornadoes touched down across parts of the Southeast, including Tennessee and Kentucky, and the Midwest. One of the hardest hit towns was Mayfield, Kentucky, and across the state, more than 1,000 houses were destroyed, with more than 60 people killed and over 100 still missing. Throughout Middle Tennessee, at least 7 tornadoes touched down, destroying property and leaving thousands of residents without power.
“It is because of community partners like the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation that we are able to proceed with compassion and sincerity, and bring hope and help to our neighbors in these devastated communities,” said Lori Marsh, regional philanthropy officer for the American Red Cross – Tennessee Region.
Along with the Red Cross, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is working to ensure the safety and wellbeing of affected residents, and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has requested federal assistance for affected counties. Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are touring sites in Kentucky and determining the state’s assistance needs.
If you’d like to assist with the Red Cross relief efforts, you can make a monetary donation or schedule an appointment to give blood.
About BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, Inc.
The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized to promote the philanthropic mission of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. It has awarded $120 million in grants since 2005. The foundation provides funding for the BlueCross Healthy Place program, which creates active, healthy spaces across Tennessee.