Released by Gulf Power …
The Gulf Power Foundation has committed $500,000 to local United Way organizations serving Northwest Florida to help members of the communities impacted by COVID-19.
In total, gulf Power and its fellow NextEra Energy companies and employees have so far committed nearly $2.75 million in COVID-19 emergency assistance funds that will be distributed directly to those in need and to partner organizations working on the frontlines of the crisis to provide critical support to the most vulnerable members of the community.
The financial commitment will be divided between three United Way organizations serving the region:
* United Way of West Florida – $250,000
* United Way Emerald Coast – $125,000
* United Way of Northwest Florida – 125,000
“Gulf Power has always been a leader in our region,” said United Way of West Florida President and CEO Laura Gilliam. “During these unprecedented times, they are once again showing their commitment to the health and well-being of our community and the entire Northwest Florida region with this very generous contribution.”
“As a part of the fabric of Northwest Florida, Gulf Power has a long history of helping our customers and our communities during difficult times. This crisis is different from anything we have ever experienced before and we must pull together as a community to lend help to those most impacted,” said Gulf Power President Marlene Santos. “We are committed to working with the United Way to assist those most vulnerable and hope that other companies will join us in this effort.The money will be used to address increased demand for services as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. The assistance will focus on human services such as:
* Support for families to include: Preschool and after-school programs, back-pack program for children, childcare services;
* Social Service providers;
* Senior services; and
* People with disabilities.
Gulf Power’s emergency assistance is part of a larger $1.5 million commitment from NextEra Energy, the world leader in wind and solar energy, and its family of companies.
“I am constantly inspired by the Gulf Power team and we eel incredibly grateful for this gift from Gulf Power Foundation,” said United Way Emerald Coast CEO Kelly Jasen. “They have so much compassion for the communities they serve, it really is no surprise to see them step up first and make such a significant investment in our region.”
Individuals in need of immediate assistance accessing food, paying housing or utility bills, or other essential services are urged to dial 211 from their phones for information and referral services.
Bryan Taylor, President of the United Way of Northwest Florida, agreed noting, “We are excited by the initiative that Gulf Power has taken to advocate on behalf of their local non-profit communities by reaching out to their partners and vendors and encouraging them to contribute to this COVID-19 relief effort. With so much uncertainty in our lives right now , it is truly a blessing to be able to be certain that Gulf Power is always going to step up and do the very best they
an to support our local our local non-profit community.community.”