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Duke Energy's Commitment to Community Support

Duke Energy has announced a significant $1 million investment aimed at bolstering nonprofit organizations throughout North Carolina. This initiative is part of their ongoing commitment to assist families, seniors, and vulnerable individuals in accessing essential resources such as food, housing, and health care. With this investment, the company aims to enhance the ability of these organizations to meet the needs of the communities they serve.

Where the Funds Will Go

The funding allocation is focused on two essential areas:
1. Capacity Building - With $500,000 earmarked for strengthening 27 community organizations, the goal is to enhance critical services including utility assistance, food access, and health care. This portion of the investment will support upgrades in technology, expand food distribution networks, and improve systems for managing casework and volunteers, ultimately allowing these organizations to serve more individuals effectively.

2. Senior Vibrancy - The remaining $500,000 will be distributed to 22 organizations that specifically cater to the needs of North Carolina's senior population. These funds will help facilitate programs such as home repairs, meal assistance, transportation, emergency financial support, and navigation through available benefits, which are essential for helping seniors live independently and with dignity.

Why This Matters

Kendal Bowman, President of Duke Energy North Carolina, expressed the company's philosophy, stating, "Our work is rooted in the belief that when customers and communities require support, we must respond meaningfully and effectively." She highlighted that many families are currently facing tough financial decisions, especially during peak summer months when energy consumption is high.

By offering this funding to trusted nonprofits, Duke Energy aims to ensure that these organizations can effectively provide food, shelter, and services that enhance the well-being of their community members.

Community Reactions

Leaders from nonprofit organizations have expressed their gratitude towards Duke Energy's support, emphasizing the positive impact of the funding:

• - Ashley McCumber, Executive Director of Meals on Wheels of Wake County, stated that this grant enhances their ability to mitigate hunger and social isolation among seniors while fostering a connected and supportive community.
• - Cindy Stubblefield, Director of Philanthropy at Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County, noted that these funds will enable them to perform critical home repairs for seniors, allowing them to remain safe and comfortable in their homes.
• - Jordyn Appel-Hughes, Executive Director of Feast Down East, mentioned that the funding will significantly aid their efforts to make healthy food more accessible and affordable for seniors struggling with food access.

A Decade of Giving Back

Duke Energy's commitment to community support is not new; the company has made substantial contributions to various nonprofit initiatives since 2016. They have invested over $34.6 million to address the essential needs of North Carolinians. This includes more than $31 million allocated to programs like the Share the Light Fund, which helps customers facing financial hardship manage their energy bills.

Employee Involvement

Duke Energy encourages its employees to engage with the community actively. Since 2016, employees have volunteered upwards of 37,300 hours in North Carolina, aiding organizations that address community challenges.

Energy Management Tools

In addition to non-profit support, Duke Energy provides a suite of resources aimed at helping customers manage their energy use, especially during hot summer months. These tools include usage alerts, free home energy assessments, and flexible payment plans, all designed to empower customers to cope with energy costs effectively.

Get Involved

Customers who wish to contribute to the community can join Duke Energy in supporting the Share the Light Fund through one-time or recurring donations, including a monthly round-up program that will match contributions made by Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation.

Duke Energy Foundation is dedicated to providing over $30 million annually to community needs, ensuring that the areas where Duke Energy operates continue to thrive and prosper.

For more information on this initiative and other resources, visit Duke Energy.