The American Bankers Association Foundation today announced it will start collecting tax-exempt contributions through its Disaster Relief Program to help aid relief efforts in Florida after the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. At the request of the Florida Bankers Association (FBA), the ABA Foundation will immediately begin accepting donations today at its website ABA.com/Florida. At the conclusion of the fundraising campaign, all funds raised will be directed to the Volunteer Florida Foundation’s “Florida Disaster Fund” to help aid relief and recovery efforts.
During ABA’s Annual Convention in Austin today, ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols announced that the association will lead the fundraising effort by contributing $100,000 through the ABA Foundation’s Disaster Relief Program to assist those affected by the storm.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Florida, including members of our banking family, as they work to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian,” said ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols. “Florida banks are already busy helping their customers and communities through this difficult time. By activating the ABA Foundation’s Disaster Relief Program, we are hoping that the entire industry can join the relief effort underway.”
“We thank ABA and bankers throughout the country for their support during this difficult time,” said Alex Sanchez, president and CEO of the Florida Bankers Association. “We know that this historic storm has directly impacted some of our banks and their employees. The funds raised by the ABA Foundation will make a difference in helping Floridians most affected by the hurricane get back on their feet. I urge everyone in our industry to consider donating to this effort.”
Through the ABA Foundation’s Disaster Relief Program, state bankers associations can request ABA Foundation assistance after a presidentially-declared disaster in their state. If the request meets certain criteria and is approved by the ABA Foundation Board, the ABA Foundation can solicit donations nationwide on the state association’s behalf. The state association is responsible for identifying a qualified recipient for all funds raised.
Donations will be accepted until November 9, 2022. To donate, visit www.aba.com/Florida. To learn more about the Volunteer Florida “Florida Disaster Fund,” visit https://www.volunteerflorida.org/florida-disaster-fund/.