Donation to American Red Cross will help support critical services and cleanup efforts in London and Somerset.
(LOUISVILLE, Ky.) – The LG&E and KU Foundation has donated $50,000 to the American Red Cross to help Kentucky families impacted by the deadly EF-4 tornado that struck London and Somerset on May 16.
The destructive tornado tore through southern Kentucky late Friday night reaching peak winds of 170 mph, according to the National Weather Service. At its widest point, the storm stretched nearly one mile across and stayed on the ground for approximately 56 miles, devastating multiple counties in its path.
Red Cross volunteers have been on the ground since early morning on May 17 assisting the impacted communities. These funds will further help with sheltering, food, critical services, financial assistance and cleanup efforts.
“We’re heartbroken community members lost their lives and by the destruction this tornado caused for our London and Somerset communities, as well as the surrounding areas. Not only are these communities part of our service territory, they are places many of our employees, families and friends call home,” said John R. Crockett, LG&E and KU president. “We know there is a long road of healing ahead, and we hope this contribution provides some relief in that process.”
For those interested in supporting recovery efforts in London and Somerset, visit redcross.org/local/kentucky to make a donation or learn more about ways to help.
Visit lge-ku.com/community to learn more about the LG&E and KU Foundation and the company’s giving initiatives and employee volunteerism.
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Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies, are regulated utilities that serve more than 1.3 million customers and have consistently ranked among the best companies for customer service in the United States. LG&E serves 335,000 natural gas and 436,000 electric customers in Louisville and 16 surrounding counties. KU serves 545,000 customers in 77 Kentucky counties and 28,000 in five counties in Virginia. More information is available at www.lge-ku.com and www.pplweb.com.
