Westfield Expands Flood Protection Options for Homeowners, Reinforces Commitment to Disaster Recovery with $750K Donation

3/24/2025

Westfield’s dual approach—enhancing insurance protection and supporting community-based recovery efforts—demonstrates its long-standing commitment to resilience, preparedness, and support for flood-affected communities across the U.S.

WESTFIELD CENTER, OH (March 24, 2025) – Westfield, a global property and casualty insurance company, is addressing growing flood risks by expanding its protection options for U.S. homeowners by offering an inland flood coverage add-on designed to help reduce the insurance gap for those living outside historical high-risk flood zones.

Developed in collaboration with a global reinsurance company, this affordable coverage helps homeowners recover from flash floods, which are increasingly impacting areas previously considered low risk. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in 2023 more than 40% of flood insurance claims came from outside high-risk flood areas.

“With increasingly unpredictable weather patterns, flooding is no longer confined to FEMA-designated high-risk areas,” said Steve Butler, AVP, personal lines product management and underwriting at Westfield. “This coverage can enable homeowners' peace of mind and financial stability in the face of evolving flood risks.”

As part of its broader commitment to flood resilience, Westfield is donating $750,000 to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) to support flood recovery and mitigation efforts. This latest gift brings Westfield’s total contributions through CDP to more than $3.5 million since 2016, reinforcing the company’s dedication to helping communities rebuild after disasters.

“It can take several months, even years, before families and entire communities are able to rebuild and recover after devastating floods,” said Patricia McIlreavy, president and CEO of CDP. “We are grateful for Westfield’s generosity and support of vital programs, such as rebuilding homes and providing mental health, legal, and disaster case management services, that will help flood survivors recover and thrive.”

The donation directs $500K to flood recovery and mitigation initiatives across the U.S. and $250K to support flood-related needs through the Atlantic Hurricane Season Fund, addressing one of the most underfunded areas of disaster response in the U.S.

Through an endowed private foundation, Westfield gives $3.5 million annually, focusing on nonprofits that complement insurance by helping individuals, families, and businesses stabilize or recover from disasters.

“As floods increasingly impact communities, Westfield is committed to providing innovative insurance solutions and supporting recovery efforts,” Butler added.

With its expanded insurance protection and philanthropic support, Westfield is taking a long-term, proactive approach to help homeowners and communities better prepare for and recover from the growing threat of floods.

About Center for Disaster Philanthropy

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy (CDP) mobilizes philanthropy to strengthen communities’ ability to withstand disasters and recover equitably when they occur. It provides expert advice and educational resources, supports diverse coalitions, and manages domestic and international disaster funds on behalf of corporations, foundations, and individuals through targeted, holistic, and localized grantmaking. Find out more at disasterphilanthropy.org and on X and LinkedIn.