State Farm bags key Red Cross status

Insurer recognized for its contributions to disaster preparedness and relief

State Farm bags key Red Cross status

Non-Profits & Charities

By Terry Gangcuangco

State Farm has been named the newest ‘Mission Leader’ by the American Red Cross, joining an esteemed group of donors that provide over $3 million annually.

“Mission Leaders like State Farm are vital to our work, helping drive innovation across our organization and providing capacity to respond immediately in times of crisis,” noted American Red Cross president and chief executive Cliff Holtz, whose camp responds to more than 65,000 emergencies across the US each year.

“I am thrilled to welcome State Farm as our newest Mission Leader and am grateful for their generosity, which safeguards our ability to care for those in need when the unthinkable happens.

State Farm’s significant contributions to disaster preparedness and relief are particularly emphasized during National Preparedness Month, though the insurer’s support continues year-round. A long-standing member of the Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP), State Farm has been a consistent supporter of disaster relief since 1999.

ADGP members pledge funds before disasters strike, enabling the Red Cross to maintain the infrastructure, trained volunteers, technology, and critical resources needed for rapid response. The preemptive donations facilitate immediate support, such as safe shelter, meals, emotional care, and recovery resources, while also enhancing community preparedness for future disasters.

In addition to its ADGP contributions, State Farm has bolstered its commitment by funding several other Red Cross initiatives. These include the Home Fire Campaign, Sound the Alarm, Be Red Cross Ready, and the Red Cross Emergency app.

As part of the Red Cross Sound the Alarm initiative, for instance, volunteers in Illinois, where State Farm is headquartered, assist residents by installing free smoke alarms, developing emergency evacuation plans, and educating families about common fire hazards.

Since the program began, the Red Cross has recorded over 2,169 lives saved, installed more than 2.6 million smoke alarms, and created nearly one million escape plans.

Apsara Sorensen, assistant vice president for corporate responsibility at State Farm, commented: “At State Farm, part of our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life and recover from the unexpected. We are proud to work alongside the Red Cross.”

Additionally, State Farm employees actively contribute as blood donors and volunteers. Last year, State Farm organized around 30 blood drives, which introduced 138 first-time donors, resulting in over 750 blood donations. Since 1990, the company’s employees have donated more than 173,000 units of blood to support Red Cross efforts.

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