Pledge of Ongoing Support Enables Red Cross to
Prepare for and Respond to Disasters
Today, the American Red Cross recognizes the Pacific Life Foundation, headquartered in Newport Beach, California, for supporting Red Cross Disaster Relief through the Disaster Responder Program with an annual pledge of $250,000. By making a proactive donation, the Pacific Life Foundation helps ensure the Red Cross is prepared to meet the needs of people affected by disasters big and small across the U.S.
Disaster Responder Program members, along with their employees and customers, pledge financial and in-kind donations in advance of disasters, powering the Red Cross with strong infrastructure, trained volunteers, innovative technology and critical resources necessary to provide relief and support to those in crisis. These donations enable the Red Cross to respond to disasters at a moment’s notice — offering a safe place to sleep, a hot meal, emotional support and resources to aid in recovery — while also helping prepare people and communities for disasters yet to come.
The Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters across the country every year, providing comfort and hope to people during what can be the worst days of their lives. Large disasters like hurricanes, floods and wildfires are increasing in frequency and intensity, resulting in more displaced, vulnerable people who need support. In what has become a chronic disaster environment, donations from Disaster Responder Program members are more important than ever as they fuel Red Cross readiness and strengthen response efforts.
“Disaster Responder Program members like the Pacific Life Foundation are truly extraordinary because they understand the importance of having vital resources in place before a disaster strikes,” said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. “We are extremely grateful for these forward-thinking donors who ensure we stand ready to help people in their darkest hours, whenever and wherever we’re needed most.”
“A key component of helping others in times of need is to plan in advance of disaster,” said Tennyson Oyler, president of the Pacific Life Foundation. “As an American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program member, the Pacific Life Foundation is proud to pledge advanced contributions to help develop the critical resources needed to support immediate relief efforts to those in need.”
Donations from Disaster Responder Program members also support basic needs for families affected by home fires — which comprise the bulk of Red Cross response efforts — and help ensure the Red Cross can continue educating people nationwide about disaster preparedness so they can cope with crises in their communities when the unthinkable happens.
Individuals can help people affected by disasters big and small by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Donations to Disaster Relief enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
About Pacific Life and the Pacific Life Foundation
For more than 150 years, Pacific Life has helped millions of individuals and families with their financial needs through a wide range of life insurance products, annuities, and mutual funds, and offers a variety of investment products and services to individuals, businesses, and pension plans. Pacific Life counts more than half of the 100 largest U.S. companies as its clients and has been named one of the 2021 World’s Most Ethical Companies® by the Ethisphere Institute. For additional company information, including current financial strength ratings, visit www.PacificLife.com. The Pacific Life Foundation (the Foundation) was established in 1984. Together with Pacific Life, the Foundation has contributed $131 million to community and national nonprofit organizations. Grants are made to organizations that address a broad spectrum of social needs. Pacific Life refers to Pacific Life Insurance Company and its affiliates, including Pacific Life & Annuity Company. Client count as of June 2021 is compiled by Pacific Life using the 2021 FORTUNE 500® list.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.