Colleagues,
As families and neighbors across the state — and especially southwest Louisiana — are making the slow climb toward recovery, our hearts and hands go with them. We are committed to being a part of that process. To that end, here are some updates I wanted to share:
Funding for organizations responding to needs — Our board has approved expanding our Community Crisis & Disaster Response grant support to organizations working to meet the needs of individuals impacted by the storm. The application process is live at the link above.
Grant deadline extensions — If you were planning to apply for one of our grant programs by the Sept. 1 deadline but were disrupted by the storms, please reach out to Chloe Wiley (chloe.wiley@bcbsla.com). We are approving extensions for folks as needed.
Please consider making a donation to support response — If you or your company are considering making a donation and haven’t done so, there are many essential organizations that could make the most out of your gift. To support those impacted in Southwest Louisiana please consider a gift to the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, the United Way of Southwest Louisiana and for more general relief efforts consider a gift to the American Red Cross or any of the local relief efforts underway across Louisiana.
You can also volunteer or give goods — Across the state, local organizations are supporting displaced families with food, clothing and other essentials. If you want to contribute in this way, a good place to start is by reaching out to your local United Way to see what is needed. We have also started and will continue to update this list of reputable organizations, how they are responding, and what needs you can meet through volunteering and donations.
The last thing I’ll mention, though it is unrelated to the storm, is that we have started accepting applications for our corporate sponsorship program again. We are supporting virtual events for the time being. You can find more information on our site.
For our colleagues who have been most affected, please know that we are behind you and stand with you. Sadly far too many of us in Louisiana have had to rebuild after Hurricanes, Floods and so much more. It is long, difficult, frustrating — but there is also so much human decency, kindness and generosity that will help you get back up and keep going when you need it.
Please reach out if there is anything you need or if there are ways we can help you in the days and weeks to come.
Michael Tipton
President, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation
Head of Community Relations
michael.tipton@bcbsla.com
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