ATLANTA — Rheem announced a philanthropic program that will aid victims affected by Hurricane Sandy. The company has created a special financing option for homeowners impacted by the storm; developed a donation effort with its distributor partners in the region; and is leading an online fundraising initiative benefiting the American Red Cross relief efforts. The entire philanthropy program began Nov. 15, 2012, and will run until Feb. 28, 2013.

“Rheem operated out of New York City from 1938 until 2006, and we still have offices in the Chrysler Building,” said JR Jones, president and CEO of Rheem. “Seeing New York City — our home for nearly 70 years — heavily impacted by Hurricane Sandy right at the onset of the winter months has moved us. Hundreds of thousands of people caught in the aftermath have witnessed unimaginable damage to their homes, and we’re committed to helping during this recovery period.”

After the damage experienced along the East Coast by Hurricane Sandy, many homeowners may need to install new furnaces or air conditioners right away. To help affected homeowners, Rheem — through its KwikComfort® financing program with GE Capital — will offer a special financing option to residents of Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. From Nov. 15, 2012 to Feb. 28, 2013, consumers can take advantage of no monthly interest if they pay for their unit in full within nine months.

“The East Coast has been devastated by Hurricane Sandy, and with the weather getting colder, homeowners shouldn’t have to worry about whether they’ll be able to stay warm this winter,” added Jones. “Rheem is grateful to be in a position to create a special financing option for our friends in New York and throughout the East Coast that immediately helps anyone who suddenly has to replace their heating or cooling equipment.”

In addition, Rheem will donate $2 to the American Red Cross relief efforts for Hurricane Sandy for every nonweatherized residential furnace that the company ships to its Rheem and Ruud distributor partners in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia.

Also, Rheem will lead an online fundraising initiative where its customers, employees, business partners, friends, and the general public can donate directly to the American Red Cross. To join Rheem in supporting the American Red Cross relief efforts, visit www.rheem.com/sandyrelief.

Publication date: 1/21/2013