The FirstEnergy Foundation has announced the allocation of $70,000 in surprise “Gifts of the Season” to six nonprofit organizations across Pennsylvania. These grants are aimed at supporting communities served by FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., which operates under Met-Ed, Penn Power, Penelec, and West Penn Power.
John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania operations, stated: “We’re proud to support these organizations because their missions align with our commitment to diverse, equitable and inclusive communities where everyone feels safe, valued, included and respected.” The recipients were selected by employees who nominated local organizations known for their impactful work with vulnerable populations.
The beneficiaries include Barrio Alegria in Reading and Glenn Hope Care Farm in Felton from the Met-Ed service area. Barrio Alegria received $10,000 for its community engagement through arts programs. Glenn Hope Care Farm also received $10,000 to continue promoting veterans’ health through farm activities.
In the Penelec service area, Vallonia Industries was awarded $20,000. This facility supports adults with intellectual disabilities by providing them with employment skills training.
The Blind Association of Butler and Armstrong was granted $10,000 within the Penn Power service area. The organization focuses on empowering individuals with visual impairments through various services including life-skills training and transportation assistance.
Achieva Support and Centre LGBT+ each received $10,000 in the West Penn Power service area. Achieva provides lifelong support for people with disabilities while Centre LGBT+ fosters an inclusive community through education and advocacy efforts.
Initiated in 2016, the “Gifts of the Season” program aims to support nonprofits that reflect FirstEnergy’s values of diversity and inclusion. To qualify for these grants, organizations must be first-time recipients or have significant operations aligned with specific diversity categories such as veteran-owned or minority-owned enterprises.
FirstEnergy Foundation continues its commitment to supporting tax-exempt nonprofits across various sectors including health services and educational programs within its operational areas.
