The heavy storms that went through Toledo, Ohio earlier this month left a devastating impact on the city. Among the consequences was a widespread power outage, affecting more than 5,000 residents. With no electricity and sweltering heat, the area desperately needed relief.
In the storm’s aftermath, Meijer team members from Toledo-area stores took immediate action and worked closely with energy company, Toledo Edison, to donate water while Toledo Edison provided ice.
Toledo Edison crews, who had been working around the clock, continued their mission to restore power for affected customers. Meanwhile, Meijer team members set up stations outside the Meijer store at 1500 E. Alexis Road. The parking lot west of the building soon transformed into a bustling hub of activity, filled with team members and community members.
“The heartwarming response from our community during this challenging time has been truly inspiring,” said Monica Koppenhofer, Toledo Meijer Store Director. “I appreciate our Market Director Randy Lewis, surrounding team members and Toledo Edison staff in making this possible for our neighbors. It’s moments like these that remind us of the strength and compassion that we have within the communities we serve.”
Each customer who arrived received one bag of ice and two gallons of water. The sight of people patiently waiting to receive their essential supplies highlighted the unity and resilience of the community.
“Everything came together very quickly,” said Jon Hartke, Maumee Meijer Store Director, who joined Monica and the Toledo team onsite. “Our Newport, Mich. and Tipp City, Ohio distribution centers had water within 24 hours, while Home City Ice made their deliveries within a couple of hours. It was a true team effort.”
Relief efforts continued for several days, to ensure everyone had an opportunity to receive the much-needed supplies. At the same time, Toledo Edison crews made significant progress in restoring power to the affected areas.
“This is why I love working for Meijer,” Monica said. “We don’t only say we enrich the communities we serve, but we act on it. Our collaboration with Toledo Edison demonstrated the power of compassion and unity during times of unexpected crisis and I will forever remember everyone’s kindness and resilience that helped Toledo residents weather the storm.”
Together, Meijer Toledo team members and Toledo Edison distributed about 2,000 gallons of water and 2,500 bags of ice to Toledo residents.