People’s United Foundation

Supporting Red Cross Disaster Relief

BRIDGEPORT — People’s United Community Foundation has announced a $50,000 donation to the American Red Cross to support the disaster relief efforts that continue throughout New England in the wake of Tropical Storm Irene.

Established in 2007, People’s United Community Foundation was formed to help support programs and activities that enhance the quality of life for citizens in the communities that People’s United Bank serves. With special emphasis on programs designed to promote economic self-sufficiency, education and improved conditions for low-income families and neighborhoods, the funding priorities of the foundation include community development, youth development, and affordable housing.

Although Tropical Storm Irene has long passed, thousands of individuals, families and businesses are still feeling the effects of the storm’s wrath. President Obama signed disaster declarations in five of the six states served by People’s United including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In response, People’s United Community Foundation has made a $50,000 donation to the American Red Cross to support their ongoing relief efforts in New England.

Since Tropical Storm Irene made landfall earlier this month, the American Red Cross has served more than 600,000 meals, distributed more than 35,000 cleanup kits, and 30,000 comfort kits. They have also provided more than 61,000 overnight stays at 581 shelters, as well as other support services provided by Red Cross volunteers and staff.

Dianne Auger, CEO for the American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region, expressed the need to continue Tropical Storm Irene relief efforts in New England and the ongoing support that is still needed from community partners.

“Long after the storm passed, people continue to deal with the effects of Irene,” she said. “The Red Cross worked to provide shelter from the storm, to ease the cleanup, and is working to link families to long-term recovery resources. With this generous support from People’s, we are able to be there for our neighbors coping with the effects of this damaging storm.”

“Although most communities have since recovered from Tropical Storm Irene, there are still many neighborhoods throughout our footprint struggling from its aftermath,” stated Vincent Santilli, executive director of People’s United Community Foundation. “We understand the long-term effects that this storm will have on families and businesses, and support the ongoing relief efforts of the Red Cross to ensure the needs of our communities are met.”

People’s United Bank maintains a branch in Newtown at 6 Queen Street. Learn more at pucf.org.