COLUMBUS, August 20, 2026 — Inspired by the critical work being carried out across its Central Ohio service area, the AEP Ohio Foundation provided a $175,000 grant to support American Red Cross disaster relief operations in Ohio. Of that total, $25,000 is designated specifically for the American Red Cross East Central Ohio Chapter to support ongoing response and recovery efforts in communities affected by recent severe weather.

“We were delighted to learn that AEP Ohio Foundation chose to further strengthen its support with an additional $25,000 grant on top of the $150,000 we received just last week. Their extraordinary commitment to the American Red Cross and to the wellbeing of the communities they serve demonstrates the powerful impact of corporate philanthropy,” said Tonya Craft, Regional Chief Executive Officer for the American Red Cross Central & Southern Ohio Region. “Partnerships with dedicated corporate supporters like AEP Ohio Foundation make it possible for us to provide relief to those impacted by disasters.”

As communities continue recovery efforts, the AEP Ohio Foundation’s grant complements AEP Ohio’s ongoing work to restore power and support broader disaster response efforts throughout the region, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to the customers and neighborhoods it serves.

"We know recovering doesn’t end when the floodwaters recede and we recognize the challenges our customers are facing right now. That’s why we're committed to supporting them throughout the recovery process," said Renee Shumate, external affairs manager for AEP Ohio. "Partnering with organizations like the Red Cross allows us to help communities in additional ways while our crews work to restore power. We take pride in investing in the people and places we serve. It's part of who we are."

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/columbus or follow us on X and Facebook @ARCcsor.