To proactively address potential threats to homes from untrimmed trees before the hurricane season, CITGO Petroleum Corporation has generously donated $50,000 to United Way of Southwest Louisiana's Strong Homes Initiative. This donation will fund a critical tree trimming Initiative to assist ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) and low-income working families in Southwest Louisiana in ensuring their homes are safer during the stormy months ahead.
United Way of Southwest Louisiana recognizes the importance of preparing for natural disasters. It is committed to reducing the damage to homes caused by high winds and heavy rains. Untrimmed trees and branches pose a significant risk during storms, often resulting in property damage or injury to individuals. This Initiative seeks to mitigate such risks by offering qualifying homeowners tree and branch removal services, thus fostering a safer community environment.
Applications will be reviewed by a qualified caseworker based on several criteria, including homeownership verification by the Parish Assessor’s office, residence location in Calcasieu Parish, habitation of the home, household income at or below the ALICE Threshold and the preventative nature of the work. A qualified, licensed vendor hired by United Way of Southwest Louisiana will carry out services to ensure the highest standards of safety and effectiveness.
"Together with the support of partners like CITGO Petroleum Corporation, we are not just preparing for the hurricane season; we are actively working towards safeguarding our community and offering peace of mind to our vulnerable families. This Initiative embodies our commitment to the well-being of every resident in Southwest Louisiana, ensuring that they have the support they need to face natural disasters with resilience," stated Denise Durel, President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Louisiana.
“At CITGO Lake Charles, safety is the central emphasis within our culture, and United Way of Southwest Louisiana’s Strong Homes Initiative aligns perfectly with our organizational objectives. We are thrilled to support these efforts to help local families safeguard their homes and enhance their resiliency against natural disasters,” stated Sterling Neblett, Vice President & General Manager of CITGO Lake Charles.
The Initiative starts with the 2024 hurricane season, which is predicted to be particularly challenging. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and will continue until the allocated funds are fully utilized. United Way of Southwest Louisiana urges eligible homeowners to apply promptly, emphasizing the program's potential to significantly reduce the likelihood of storm-related damages and enable more residents to remain safely in their homes after a natural disaster.
CITGO Petroleum Corporation's donation and the subsequent action by United Way of Southwest Louisiana exemplify the power of community collaboration and the impact of preemptive measures in disaster preparedness. Together, they are making strides towards a safer hurricane season for the vulnerable populations in Southwest Louisiana.
For more information on applying for assistance or contributing to ongoing disaster preparedness efforts, please visit unitedwayswla.org/stronghomes.
Application Criteria:
- Applicant must be the homeowner as verified by the Calcasieu Parish Assessor's Office
- Home must be in Calcasieu Parish
- The homeowner must inhabit the home year-round
- The home must currently be inhabited
- Households must live at or below the ALICE Threshold
- Work must be preventative
In addition to addressing immediate tree-trimming needs, the Strong Homes Initiative actively seeks funding opportunities and partnerships for other storm-preventative measures. This expansion aims to encompass a broader range of services that can further protect homes and families in Southwest Louisiana from the devastating effects of hurricanes and other natural disasters. By collaborating with local businesses, philanthropies and government agencies, the Initiative hopes to build a comprehensive disaster preparedness program that mitigates damage and strengthens community resilience against future storms.
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