Hamill Foundation Makes Mission Critical Gift to Red Cross

(Houston, TXApril 4, 2018) — The American Red Cross of the Texas Gulf Coast, a nonprofit humanitarian organization, announced today a mission critical donation by The Hamill Foundation.  The Hamill Foundation, headquartered in Houston, Texas, gives grants in the areas of education, science, charity, and religious activity.  The foundation’s donation has funded the purchase of a next-generation emergency response vehicle with significantly improved safety features and fuel efficiency.

“Over the years, the American Red Cross, Greater Houston Area, has come to symbolize disaster relief in times of hurricanes, tornadoes, or flooding. Additionally, the work they do with aid to military families, as one of their core programs, is admirable,” said Tom Brown, Grants Director of The Hamill Foundation. “The Hamill Foundation is proud to financially support Red Cross efforts for over ten years.  The Next Generation Emergency Response Vehicles is a natural next step to provide the latest and best equipment for them to help our neighbors in the Houston community.”

The emergency response vehicle boasts a rearview camera, external lighting, and enhanced ergonomics to better support distribution of food, cleanup supplies, and essential relief items.  Wider windows enable improved communication and engagement between Red Cross workers and those served.  Current emergency response vehicles average 10 miles per gallon while the new next generation model averages 18 miles per gallon for a savings of about $1800 each year.

“We are grateful the Hamill Foundation chose to honor us with such a transformational gift,” said Henry Van de Putte, Regional Chief Executive for the American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast. “Emergency Response Vehicles are vital to our readiness and response efforts and it will make a significant impact in the Texas Gulf Coast Region, enhancing the Red Cross mission delivery and providing greater versatility and efficiency for the organization.”