PPL Foundation grants support South Central Pa. nonprofits

The PPL Foundation has awarded $175,000 in Empowering Communities grants to 17 nonprofit organizations across South Central Pennsylvania to support food access, housing, workforce development, and community programs.

The grants will benefit organizations in Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Juniata, Lancaster, and Perry counties. This round of funding will help expand access to fresh and nutritious food, support safe and stable housing and connect individuals and families with essential services, according to a release. Funding will also strengthen workforce development and small business initiatives, helping people gain skills, find employment, and build financial stability. 

“Every vibrant community has people who care about their neighbors and are committed to building a brighter future,” Christine Martin, PPL Electric Utilities president and an officer of the PPL Foundation, said in a statement. “By investing through these grants, we’re helping organizations provide critical support, expand safe and welcoming spaces and increase access to opportunities. 

“We’re proud to stand with community partners whose efforts are creating meaningful and lasting benefits for local residents.” 

Hands-on STEM learning, literacy and after-school programs, youth leadership opportunities and summer enrichment experiences will be supported by the grants. Other initiatives will promote environmental stewardship, community wellness and revitalization, and access to arts and cultural experiences, per the release. 

The list of organizations supported through this round of grants includes ASSETS Lancaster; Carlisle Family YMCA; Central PA Conservancy; Clare House; Communities in Schools of Pennsylvania; Good Samaritan Services; Harrisburg Area YMCA; IM ABLE Foundation; Lancaster County Food Hub; Midwest Food Bank; Neighbor Helping Neighbor Food Bank; The Edible Classroom; The Hub; The Joshua Group; The Lancaster Science Center; The Literacy Council of Lancaster-Lebanon LVA, Inc.; and the Whitaker Center for the Science and the Arts. 

The next round of Empowering Communities grants will open for applications on Aug. 1. Nonprofit organizations serving communities within PPL Electric Utilities’ service area are encouraged to apply. 

The PPL Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization. Funded by PPL Corporation, the foundation was formed to support community initiatives in the areas served by PPL Corporation’s utilities.