Navy Federal, Hancock Whitney Announce $200,000 in Hurricane Recovery Donations

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Two major employers with Northwest Florida ties have announced a combined $200,000 in donations to support Hurricane Isaias recovery.

Hancock Whitney announced Tuesday that it would contribute $100,000, with $50,000 going to United Way of West Florida and another $50,000 to United Way of Emerald Coast.

Navy Federal Credit Union announced Wednesday morning that it is donating another $100,000 to United Way of West Florida's Hurricane Isaias Relief Fund.

The announcements were made separately.

Hancock Whitney Northwest Florida Market President Bruce Vredenberg said the bank chose United Way because of the organization's existing relationships with agencies providing assistance to hurricane victims.

Vredenberg said the longer-term needs of storm victims were also a consideration.

“The real story is what goes on and lingers beyond that,” Vredenberg told NewsRadio 92.3, pointing to needs that may not be covered by FEMA or other government assistance.

Navy Federal said its donation will support emergency assistance and longer-term recovery for families in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

The hurricane has a particularly close connection to Navy Federal's local workforce. The credit union says nearly 95% of employees in its Greater Pensacola Operations live in Escambia or Santa Rosa County.

Vredenberg encouraged other businesses and individuals to contribute whatever they can toward the recovery.