Grant to go directly to Texas Flood Relief

Special to The Leader

International Paper has authorized a critical community need disaster relief grant to the American Red Cross in response to the recent flooding in the Texas gulf coast region. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the global packaging and paper company has18 facilities in Texas with 2,400 employees throughout the state. In addition to the $500,000 grant, IP’s Industrial Packaging business has donated over 50,000 boxes to local food banks and church groups to expedite the distribution of items to those hardest hit by the flooding.

“Ensuring the safety of our employees and the welfare of the communities where we live and work is the most important thing we do as a company,” said Mark Sutton, Chairman & CEO, International Paper.

“We appreciate the assistance the state has provided during this crisis to the 2,400 IP employees who call Texas home. We hope these contributions help provide relief to the many families who have been impacted.”

The American Red Cross is working day and night to help people across the south after the devastating flooding left thousands of people without a place to stay. Red Cross workers are continuing to help families stay safe and dry by opening shelters and providing meals and emotional support. Since the flooding began, about 1,300 Red Cross workers have provided 3,600 overnight stays in 58 shelters, served 128,000 meals and snacks, and distributed 42,600 relief items including comfort kits and cleaning supplies. Health services workers are helping with lost medications and eyeglasses and minor first aid needs. Mental health services workers are providing emotional support during this difficult time.

“The flood fight in the South is far from over, with rivers still flooding in Texas. Even as the waters recede, these floods continue to have a devastating impact on the lives of people across the state of Texas” said Brad Kieserman, vice president of disaster cycle services operations and logistics. “In the midst of our response, I wanted to take a moment to thank International Paper for their generous support of the American Red Cross. Because of partners like International Paper, we’re able to be there in the aftermath of these floods as well as continue our support of those facing countless other disasters across the country.”

For more information about Red Cross Relief efforts, visit www.redcross.org.