GOSHEN, Ind. – The Everence® community, which includes members, clients, and staff, has demonstrated extraordinary generosity in response to the Everence Helps: Hurricane Relief initiative launched on Oct. 14, 2024. The matching gift initiative was designed to provide crucial relief for individuals and families affected by the 2024 hurricanes in the southeastern United States.
With donations surpassing expectations, the Everence clients, members and employees raised an impressive $93,924 – an amount exceeding the original $50,000 matching gift challenge, prompting Everence to increase its contribution, resulting in a total of $200,000 for hurricane relief.
“The extraordinary generosity of the Everence community has directly contributed to rebuilding lives in the wake of one of the worst hurricane seasons in recent memory,” said Ken Hochstetler, Everence President and CEO. “It’s deeply moving to see donations exceed the initial goal so quickly, and we’re pleased to match the generosity of our members, clients and staff with a larger commitment to provide even more resources and assistance.”
The $200,000 raised will directly support the ongoing hurricane recovery and rebuilding efforts through the following nonprofit and humanitarian organizations:
- Brethren Disaster Ministries
- Christian Aid Ministries
- Christian Disaster Relief
- Church World Service
- Mennonite Disaster Service
- Samaritan’s Purse
With the conclusion of the matching gift initiative on Dec. 31, 2024, Everence is grateful for the outpouring of support.
“The generous outpouring of support shows that together, we can make an enduring difference,” added Hochstetler.
As the Everence Helps: Hurricane Relief initiative concludes, the organization is now looking to help neighbors facing need on the opposite side of the country. On Jan. 21, Everence launched a short-term California Wildfire Assistance Grants program, to support immediate relief and long-term recovery efforts. Churches offering critical support to individuals and families impacted by the wildfires may qualify for a grant of up to $3,000, if they are located in or around Los Angeles County, California, and are involved in the Everence Stewardship Partners program or affiliated with Everence.