Church Mutual Insurance Company has donated $35,000 to aid in the relief effort of last Sunday evening’s devastating tornado.
Lincoln County’s largest employer has earmarked $10,000 for the North Central Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross and $25,000 to the Tornado Relief Fund of Merrill, sponsored by the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation and administered by the Lincoln County Emergency Management staff.
The tornado, which cut a 22-mile swath from northern Marathon County through Lincoln County, had estimated wind speeds of 165 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service in Green Bay.
“The people affected by this event are not only our customers but our family, friends, neighbors and employees,” Church Mutual President and Chief Executive Officer Mike Ravn said. “The initial $10,000 to Red Cross will go to more immediate emergency help. The additional monies will be distributed by the Tornado Relief Fund for unmet needs that will occur weeks and months down the road.”
Founded on March 4, 1897, Church Mutual insures more than 100,000 worship centers and religious-related institutions. It also insures thousands of homes in both Lincoln and Marathon counties.
Rated “A (Excellent)” by A.M. Best, Church Mutual does business in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.