ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS PROVIDER SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC U.S. doesn’t just put its money where its mouth is. Not content with a $7 million donation over the next 4½ years to the anti-homelessness group Habitat for Humanity, the Palatine, Ill.-based company sent more than 200 employees to Gautier, Miss., Jan. 30 to help build houses and facilities in the storm-ravaged community.

The volunteers built three homes, a playground and a neighborhood pavilion in Gautier, which was devastated in August 2005 by Hurricane Katrina.

The $7 million donation will provide each home with a load center, circuit breakers and other related products from Schneider’s flagship brand, Square D.

Dave Petratis, president and CEO of Schneider’s North American division, said the effort was part of the company’s ongoing commitment to Habitat for Humanity and the Gulf Coast region. Schneider has donated roughly $6 million worth of electrical equipment to the charity organization since 2001.

“The Gulf Region continues to feel the devastating effects of the 2005 hurricane season. Ongoing dedication to assisting and rebuilding this region is vital to restoring it to the thriving community it once was,” Petratis said. “Our long-standing partnership with Habitat for Humanity helps us make a positive difference long after the storms have passed.”

“The generous donation of time, money and equipment from [Schneider] and its employees help us to improve and enrich lives with simple, decent and affordable housing,” added Jonathan Reckford, Habitat for Humanity International’s CEO.

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