Oct. 19, 2005 –– MSI Building Supplies celebrated raising more than $18,000 for the American Red Cross Katrina Disaster Fund in a Tuesday morning ceremony with the company's employees and Red Cross representatives.
Shortly after the Katrina disaster, MSI initiated a fund-raising drive. Kris Brunt, MSI chief financial officer, said the company agreed to match contractor and employee donations up to $10,000.
Having survived several storms –– notably Hurricanes Hugo and Marilyn –– Brunt spoke from experience. She said, "It's impossible to see the impact that hurricane had on the Gulf Coast and not want to help in some way, especially since the territory has experienced first-hand what a natural disaster of that magnitude can do to a community."
Brunt also mentioned the generosity that the V.I. experienced after both major storms. Those who lived in the territory during the aftermath of Hurricanes Hugo and Marilyn will remember the donations from the many mainland civic, religious and community groups that poured into the territory. In fact, a few youth groups arrived in person to help with the actual re-building.
"It is only natural to now reach out," Brunt said, "to those who helped us through our difficulties."
MSI contractors and employees raised $8,360. The company added the full $10,000, since contributions were so close to the match ceiling, bringing the total to $18,360. The check was accepted by Jane Wherrin, American Red Cross interim executive director.
Customer donors included Scott Godfrey, Matthew Concrete, Irie Associates, Marshall Construction, Custom Builders, Carlson Construction, Lillian Greaux, Barbara O 'Brien, Appliances Plus, Thomas and Barbara Tyne, Gordon Coffelt, Tradewinds Construction and American Paradise Real Estate.
