Chattanooga, August 24, 2025
News Summary
The First Horizon Foundation has made a generous donation of $25,000 to the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee to aid relief efforts in Chattanooga following devastating flooding. The city experienced heavy rains leading to extensive property damage and four fatalities. Local leaders, including Mayor Tim Kelly, praised the Foundation’s commitment to community support as initiatives for recovery are set in motion, including donation drives to assist those affected.
Chattanooga
The First Horizon Foundation has announced a generous donation of $25,000 to the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee to support relief efforts following severe flooding in Chattanooga. The foundation’s contribution aims to provide essential aid as the community begins to recover from the devastating effects of the natural disaster.
Heavy rainfall on August 12 led to significant flooding across Chattanooga, affecting approximately 300 structures and resulting in four deaths. Among the fatalities was a family whose vehicle was struck by a falling tree. As residents grapple with the aftermath, including widespread property damage, First Horizon’s support is seen as a vital part of the recovery process.
Jay Dale, the president of First Horizon Chattanooga Market, highlighted the importance of community support during such challenging times. He noted that while the floodwaters may have receded, the true work of recovery is just beginning. The foundation has a history of stepping up during emergencies, reinforcing its commitment to assist those in need within the community.
Chattanooga’s Mayor, Tim Kelly, lauded the Foundation’s donation as an exemplary display of community unity. He acknowledged the consistent dedication of First Horizon in providing assistance during extraordinary circumstances, indicating that their contributions help strengthen the collective response to crises.
Flood Damage Assessment
In the wake of the flooding, officials from Hamilton County are assessing the damages, but they indicate that the area may not qualify for federal disaster aid. The total damages are expected to fall below the $13 million threshold, which is the criteria for federal assistance.
Local initiatives are also emerging to support those affected by the flooding. District 5 Councilman Dennis Clark is spearheading a donation drive set for August 16 at Brainerd High School, aimed at gathering supplies and funds for flood victims. This effort is part of a broader response that includes various community organizations working together to provide relief.
Community Support Organizations
Several organizations are mobilizing to assist impacted residents, including:
- Action Church
- American Red Cross
- Hamilton County Baptist Association
- Tennessee Baptist Disaster Relief
- United Way of Greater Chattanooga
The Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management is actively involved in assessing the damages and facilitating outreach so that residents can seek help from local non-profit organizations dedicated to disaster relief.
Conclusion
The $25,000 donation from the First Horizon Foundation to the American Red Cross serves as a significant component of Chattanooga’s recovery efforts following recent floods, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and support in times of crisis.
FAQ
What is the purpose of First Horizon Foundation’s donation?
The donation is intended to support flood relief efforts in Chattanooga following significant flooding that occurred on August 12.
How much was donated to the American Red Cross?
The First Horizon Foundation donated $25,000.
What was the extent of the flooding in Chattanooga?
The flooding damaged approximately 300 structures and resulted in four fatalities.
Are residents eligible for federal disaster aid?
Officials indicated that Hamilton County is unlikely to qualify for federal disaster aid as total damages may fall below the $13 million threshold.
What local initiatives are being organized for flood victims?
A donation drive is being led by District 5 Councilman Dennis Clark on August 16 at Brainerd High School, and various local organizations are providing support services.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Donation Amount | $25,000 |
| Affected Area | Chattanooga, Southeast Tennessee |
| Date of Flooding | August 12 |
| Structures Damaged | Approximately 300 |
| Recorded Fatalities | 4 |
| Local Recovery Initiatives | Donation drive led by District 5 Councilman Dennis Clark |
| Assessing Authority | Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management |
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: First Horizon Foundation Donates $25,000
- Local 3 News: District 5 Flood Relief Donation Drive
- News Channel 9: Flooding Damage Report in Hamilton County
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
