JCPenney, headquartered in Plano, is working with the Salvation Army to contribute 130,000 units of new homewares and clothing to help families across the 60-miles of Florida coastline impacted by Hurricane Ian. The gift, which aims to relieve those struggling with the burden of recovery, is worth $2.4M.
“The loss many Floridians have sustained from Hurricane Ian has proven even more challenging as children are left without clothes or supplies for school, and parents are trying to prepare for the holidays with finances stretched thin,” said Commissioner Kenneth Hodder, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “We are proud to partner with JCPenney in providing new clothing and household items to these families in need and hope our efforts will help ease the burden as they continue to recover.”
The Salvation Army’s initial relief efforts in response to Hurricane Ian have focused on meeting immediate needs through meals, shelter, emotional and spiritual care and other emergency services to survivors and first responders. To date, nearly 10,000 cleanup kits and 36,000 infant supplies have been distributed, and nearly 400,000 meals have been served in feeding locations throughout Florida. However, this in-kind donation from JCPenney will allow The Salvation Army to provide long-term hope that goes beyond the initial feeding and cleanup.
The goods will be donated through a multipart delivery and distribution effort throughout Orlando, Lakeland, Fort Myers, Tampa and Naples, and will help survivors physically and emotionally recover from the challenges Hurricane Ian has brought. Deliveries begin this week and will continue through the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Shipping costs have also been covered by JCPenney, and The Salvation Army’s local teams will distribute the items to families in need throughout the affected areas.
“JCPenney’s founding principles are rooted in building strong, vibrant communities,” said JCPenney Chief Executive Officer Marc Rosen. “We are committed to upholding this legacy and are honored to partner with The Salvation Army to provide resources for families in Florida as they rebuild their communities in the wake of Hurricane Ian.”
