Ford Philanthropy Launches Hurricane Helene Donation Challenge

Ford Philanthropy Launches Hurricane Helene Donation Challenge

Posted on October 16, 2024

In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Ford Philanthropy – formerly known as the Ford Fund – has launched the Hurricane Helene Donation Challenge. This initiative aims to provide substantial financial relief to impacted communities by matching donations made to Team Rubicon, the Red Cross, and Feeding America, with a maximum match of $100,000 per organization. This collective effort could result in a total impact of up to $600,000 to support disaster relief efforts.

Ford Credit and Lincoln Automotive Financial Services are also offering eligible customers impacted by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Francine delayed payment options, providing financial flexibility during this challenging time. Meanwhile, Ford's expanded partnership with Team Rubicon is in full swing. The organization is accepting volunteers – both Ford employees and the general public – to assist with on-the-ground recovery efforts, including debris removal and home restoration.

Earlier this year, Ford donated a fleet of 17 vehicles to Team Rubicon to help communities across the U.S. affected by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and wildfires. This initiative is part of Ford’s ongoing commitment to supporting disaster-stricken areas through donations and volunteer work.

Mary Culler, president of Ford Philanthropy, emphasized the scale of the disaster, noting it is potentially worse than Hurricane Katrina. Ford is in daily contact with its partners, assessing how best to assist – whether through vehicles, funding, volunteers, or simply raising awareness of the urgent need for help in affected communities.