The American Red Cross has announced a $5 million gift from the Truist Foundation to support humanitarian needs posed by extreme weather events across the United States.

The commitment will support Red Cross efforts to respond to natural disasters and alleviate hardships brought on by increased challenges related to extreme weather-driven disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. The gift is inspired by the Community Adaptation Program, through which the Red Cross partners with local nonprofits to strengthen recovery efforts in areas that are concurrently at high risk for extreme weather and struggling with socioeconomic challenges, and will assist the Red Cross in lessening the impact of future disasters in these communities.

“Stronger and more frequent disasters are repeatedly striking communities across the country, creating unimaginable suffering for vulnerable families,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “As we continue to see these devastating impacts each year, we’re so very grateful for Truist Foundation’s generosity and partnership as we work to expand our capacity and adapt our services to help people in times of great need.”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/CHUYN)