From 1917 to Today: John Deere Continues 109-Year Partnership with the American Red Cross

15 May 2026, Moline: More than a century after members of the Deere family helped lead the formation of the Moline Red Cross chapter, John Deere is continuing that legacy with a $250,000 commitment to support disaster preparedness and relief efforts in communities where its employees live and work, and across the country.

What began as a local response to crisis in 1917, when Deere family members helped establish the Moline Red Cross chapter during the Spanish Influenza epidemic, has become a lasting commitment. William Butterworth, son-in-law of company founder John Deere and later company president and chairman, served as Red Cross chapter chairman beginning in 1919.

Today, John Deere’s investment supports the American Red Cross Disaster Responder Program, helping ensure families and communities have access to shelter, meals, emotional support and other critical services when disasters strike.

“I think about our employees and neighbors in the Quad Cities, in Waterloo, and in communities across the country. When disaster hits close to home, you want to know help is already on its way,” said Taryn Edgin, director of Global Corporate Responsibility and President of the John Deere Foundation. “That’s what this partnership makes possible. By investing before disasters happen, we help the Red Cross respond fast, whether it’s a tornado or a house fire down the street.”

By contributing in advance of disasters, Disaster Responder members help the Red Cross mobilize volunteers, technology and other resources quickly. Whether responding to large scale disasters or supporting a family after a home fire, donors like John Deere are critical in ensuring the Red Cross can help those in need without delay.

Nationally, the Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters both big and small each year, with demand continuing to grow as severe weather events increase in frequency and intensity.

“We are grateful for partners like John Deere whose long-standing commitment helps power our preparedness and response efforts,” said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. “Support from Disaster Responder members ensures we can provide help and hope to families facing some of their most difficult moments.”

John Deere’s $250,000 investment is part of an ongoing commitment to disaster readiness, building on more than a century of partnership that began in the Quad Cities and now supports communities nationwide.

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