TXU Energy says it will donate $50,000 to the Dallas Area and Chisholm Trail chapters of American Red Cross to provide disaster relief assistance for the latest round of storm victims, and to help replenish Red Cross supplies to better prepare for future disasters. This partnership will provide emergency assistance to residents directly affected by this and future storms.
"Recovery can be difficult after a storm of this magnitude. We want to do our part to help those affected by the storm in their time of need," said Jim Burke, Chairman and CEO of TXU Energy.
Wednesday evening, much of central and north Texas experienced blustering winds and brutal showers throughout the evening and night, causing damage to homes and widespread power outages. Many were left without electricity and bare essentials were lost due to the storm. This TXU Energy donation will provide effected individuals with items such as safe shelter, food, clothing, clean-up items and financial assistance for those who suffered losses in the storm.
"In the past month, the Red Cross has responded to five major weather events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area," said Jason Smith, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross of the Chisholm Trail Chapter. "Our ability to be prepared and to respond quickly could not be more important."
Cheryl Sutterfield-Jones, chief executive officer, American Red Cross Dallas Area Chapter echoes those sentiments. "We are so grateful to those at TXU Energy for this very generous gift. Not only will it help victims from this week, but will help families well into the future."
Last week, Red Cross volunteers began conducting a preliminary damage assessment. So far, reports show that approximately 40 homes across the Metroplex have sustained major damage. A total of three Red Cross shelters have been opened, and families have been assisted with safe shelter and assistance for food and clothing. Storm damage ranges from high winds, heavy rain, fires caused by lightning strikes, tornadoes and some hail. So far, the Red Cross is aware of damage in Fort Worth, Dallas, Midlothian, Terrell, Red Oak, Alvarado, Venus and other North Texas communities.
Due to the widespread nature of the storms, TXU is encouraging anyone who has sustained damage to their homes to contact TXU Energy Customer Service. You can also contact the Red Cross in Dallas at 214-678-4800 or Fort Worth at 817-335-9137.
