Avangrid Foundation Honors Longstanding American Red Cross Partnership with $250,000 Donation
By American Red Cross http://www.connecticutplus.com/cplus/information/news/News_1/Avangrid-Foundation-Honors-Longstanding-American-Red-Cross-Partnership-with-250-000-Donation2515925159.shtml
Executive Robert Kump joins Connecticut Board of Directors
ORANGE, CT - The Avangrid Foundation announced on Tuesday an additional $250,000 gift to The American Red Cross in support of its Disaster Responder Program. This is the second monetary gift provided by the foundation, resulting in a total program contribution of $500,000. Additionally, Robert Kump, Avangrid Foundation Board Director and Chief Executive Officer – Avangrid Networks, has joined the Red Cross Board of Directors in Connecticut. “Our partnership with the Avangrid Foundation demonstrates the true power of cross-sector collaboration, working together toward the betterment of society,” said Mario Bruno, CEO, American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region. “Ultimately, this gift will allow the Red Cross to continue to deliver vital services, including disaster response, sheltering and other essential assistance.” The Avangrid Foundation is an independent organization that funds philanthropic investments in areas where AVANGRID Inc. (NYSE: AGR), a diversified energy company, and its subsidiaries operate. Since 2002, the Foundation and its predecessors have invested more than $21 million in grants, contributions, scholarships and matching gift programs with a focus on building sustainable, vital and healthy communities; preserving cultural and artistic heritage; advancing education and improving the lives of people in the communities we serve. AVANGRID’s family of companies has a long history of support and partnership with the Red Cross, from local blood drives to regional emergency planning efforts and emergency response. This donation allows the Red Cross to continue to provide essential volunteer training as well as secure and maintain the shelters, vehicles and supplies necessary for rapid emergency response on all scales. Kump, a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, is currently responsible for the utility operations of AVANGRID, serving 3.2 million customers in New York and New England. “Utility workers are first responders; our people have long worked alongside the Red Cross in times of crisis and emergency,” said Kump. “We are dedicated to ensuring that our communities are prepared before disaster strikes. Preparedness is a significant component of our proactive approach to strengthening communities, and I am honored to help steward the work of this great organization as a member of the board.” The Red Cross responds to more than 62,000 disasters each year across the country, including home fires, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and wildfires. Red Cross services are provided to people in need of assistance at no cost and regardless of income through the generosity of Red Cross donors.
