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FirstEnergy Foundation Increases Support for Vulnerable Communities

Introduction
The FirstEnergy Foundation has launched an impactful initiative aimed at combating homelessness and domestic violence in West Virginia and Maryland. With an investment of $125,000 allocated to seven vital organizations, the Foundation is reinforcing its commitment to shelter, safety, and stability for individuals and families facing significant challenges.

Growing Concerns in the Community
According to recent statistics, the issues of homelessness and housing instability are escalating. In West Virginia, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness rose to nearly 1,925 in January 2025, indicating an 8.2% increase from the previous year. Alarmingly, families with children make up a considerable portion of this statistic, with a 27% rise noted in this demographic. Similarly, Maryland reports approximately 6,069 residents experiencing homelessness nightly, further emphasizing the pressing need for support services.

Strategic Initiative Expansion
The latest financial commitment from the FirstEnergy Foundation is part of a broader expansion of its Shelter, Safety, and Stability initiative, which has increased its budget from $100,000 to $500,000 for 2026. This initiative now supports a total of 38 organizations across five states, including critical service providers in regions served by Mon Power and Potomac Edison—both subsidiaries of FirstEnergy Corp.

Grants Benefiting Local Organizations
The organizations receiving grants this year include:

• - Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center: Aiming to prevent violence, this center supports survivors of domestic abuse and provides crucial resources in Berkeley, Morgan, and Jefferson counties, WV.
• - HOPE, Inc.: Operating in multiple counties across West Virginia, this organization focuses on ensuring safety and empowerment for victims of domestic violence, stalking, and human trafficking.
• - North Star Child Advocacy Center: This center assists child victims of sexual abuse and violence in counties such as Wood and Wirt, highlighting its significant role in community safety.
• - Beyond Shelter: Serving Frederick County, MD, this coalition provides essential support to transition individuals from crisis into stability, offering financial assistance for housing needs.
• - Casa, Inc.: A vital resource for survivors of intimate partner violence in Washington County, MD, providing professional support and guidance.
• - Heartly House: The only organization in Frederick County providing comprehensive services to survivors of diverse forms of violence, along with community awareness programs.
• - Hope Center: Celebrating over six decades, it has been a beacon of hope for the homeless and disadvantaged in the Hagerstown, MD area.

Impact of Donations and Employee Involvement
Since 2020, the FirstEnergy Foundation has contributed over $1.6 million to organizations assisting those in need of shelter. A substantial portion—nearly $700,000—has been specifically designated for initiatives targeting survivors of domestic violence. In 2026 alone, the Foundation has allocated more than $850,000 to housing-related efforts.

In addition to financial support, FirstEnergy encourages employees to volunteer their time, offering dedicated volunteer hours for local nonprofit efforts. In 2025, services such as fundraising, construction assistance with Habitat for Humanity, and gardening projects at shelters accounted for approximately 28,500 volunteer hours, translating to over $1 million in additional community support.

Conclusion
With a firm belief in building safer and more stable communities, the FirstEnergy Foundation continues to expand its support for organizations that provide essential services to the most vulnerable populations. By investing in shelter, safety, and supportive services, the Foundation is paving the way for a more resilient future for those in need.

For more information about their initiatives and support programs, visit FirstEnergy Corp's website.