The Ford Fund and Team Rubicon recently announced Team Rubicon Powered by Ford. This new disaster relief initiative that will serve the growing number of communities across the United States impacted by hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wildfires. According to studies, 90% of U.S. counties experienced a federal climate disaster between 2011 and 2021, so Ford has decided to invest $2.5 million into a commitment to deploying employee volunteers and a fleet of vehicles to areas that may need assistance. This will significantly expand Team Rubicon’s ability to provide no-cost services to vulnerable communities in the wake of these disasters and crises.
Team Rubicon Powered by Ford: Details
Team Rubicon Powered by Ford builds on nearly 25 years of disaster relief efforts by Ford. The company had invested in disaster relief efforts since 1999, when a catastrophic earthquake struck Turkey, and Ford mobilized vehicles, volunteers, and other lifesaving aid in the region. Since then, Ford has consistently supported disaster relief efforts in communities nationwide and worldwide.
From Hurricane Harvey in 2017 to the Texas ice storms of 2021, even after the deadly storms in eastern Kentuck last year, Ford has shown up for communities in need by deploying vehicles to provide emergency transportation and power, delivering essential goods, and funding direct service providers. Over the last few years, the Ford Fund has donated $7 million to disaster relief efforts globally, including $1.5 million in previous investments to Team Rubicon.
The fleet of donated vehicles consists of 10 Ford F-150 XLs, Three Ford F-150 Lightning Pros, Two Ford Super Duty F-350 XLs, Two Ford Bronco 4-door SUVs with the Sasquatch package, and five years of Ford Pro Fleet Management software and maintenance. Each vehicle features a unique, co-branded wrap design inspired by an aircraft’s quick maneuverability and responsiveness, with a nod to aviation tail art. Each model has a unique rear pattern, and the wraps include reflective elements for improved visibility in dark locations.