Go Solar Seattle Northwest, a community-based solar energy campaign in Seattle, raised $10,101 to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Tammy Deets of Community Energy Solutions, a Bainbridge Island-based nonprofit organization that led the Go Solar Seattle Northwest campaign, said they were overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion of the leaders in the solar industry who donated funds for every family that went solar through the Seattle Northwest campaign by Dec. 31.

“It shouldn’t be surprising that those in the solar industry recognize the seriousness of climate change and how it is having a direct impact on people’s lives,” Deets said.

“Solar energy is not only a long-term solution to stem climate change, but through the campaign’s Solar Relief Fund, the industry is stepping up to provide some immediate help as well,” she said.

Ann Bodden, major gifts associate for the American Red Cross serving King and Kitsap counties, said the Go Solar Northwest initiative was the only solar-tied fundraiser in this region.

“It is wonderful to have a partner in the clean energy industry to raise funds for disaster relief,” Bodden said.

The Go Solar campaign was just beginning when the devastating storm made landfall on the east coast. To answer the call for help, a Solar Relief Fund was created.

By the end of December 2012, a total of 18 families in the Seattle Northwest area and several non-campaign area families decided to go solar. This meant not only would they soon be using clean renewable energy and cutting their carbon footprint, but a portion of the funds were donated to help those affected by Sandy.