Mon Power employees have joined forces with Morgantown-based nonprofit Pantry Plus More to tackle child hunger in Monongahela County, West Virginia. According to Pantry Plus More, one in five children in the county go to bed hungry, highlighting the crucial need for assistance in the area.
The recent collaboration between Mon Power employees and Pantry Plus More involved various activities aimed at alleviating food insecurity. Volunteers packed food boxes, prepared weekend food bags for students, assembled hygiene boxes for families in need, and assisted with organizing the pantry’s supplies. This initiative marks the beginning of FirstEnergy’s annual Harvest for Hunger campaign, which aims to combat food insecurity in the region.
Jim Myers, President of FirstEnergy’s West Virginia Operations, expressed pride in the employees’ dedication to supporting local nonprofits like Pantry Plus More. He emphasized the significance of contributing to organizations that work towards improving the lives of community members.
Reflecting on the impact of their volunteer efforts, Myers highlighted the rewarding nature of giving back to the local community. He noted that employees would feel a sense of fulfillment in knowing they have made a difference in the lives of children and families in their neighborhoods.
In response to the volunteers’ contributions, a local school counselor shared insights on the traumatic effects of food insecurity on young children. The counselor also mentioned the newfound trust that families in need have placed in schools to provide meals for them, underscoring the vital role of community support in addressing hunger issues.
As part of FirstEnergy’s 2024 Harvest for Hunger campaign, the company aims to raise $240,000 to generate 1.5 million meals by the end of April. Employee donations will be matched by the FirstEnergy Foundation to further assist families in the areas served by FirstEnergy’s electric companies, including Mon Power.
The collaboration between Mon Power employees and Pantry Plus More exemplifies a collective effort to combat hunger and support vulnerable families in local communities. Through their volunteer work and contributions, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.
For media inquiries, please contact Hannah Catlett at (440) 554-5346.
