PSEG Foundation Marks Ten Years of Community Support with $8 Million in Grants

A Decade of Commitment: PSEG Foundation's Neighborhood Partners Program

In a significant celebration marking ten years of its Neighborhood Partners Program (NPP), the PSEG Foundation recently hosted an event honoring over 400 nonprofit organizations that have collectively received nearly $8 million in grants since its inception. This impressive milestone highlights the foundation's long-standing commitment to fostering community development and support across New Jersey and New York.

At the event, which took place at PSEG's General Office in Newark, over 100 nonprofit representatives gathered to share heartfelt testimonials about how the grants have positively impacted their communities. Calvin Ledford Jr., President of the PSEG Foundation, emphasized the vital role of the NPP in funding initiatives aligned with three key pillars: environmental sustainability, social justice, and economic empowerment.

"In ten years, the Neighborhood Partners Program has not only awarded millions in grants but has stood alongside hundreds of community-led organizations to create lasting change throughout New Jersey. NPP now serves as a role model for other funders who also seek to be catalysts for progress at the neighborhood level," Ledford stated.

Record-Breaking Year for Grant Applications

This year proved to be particularly fruitful for the program, with an 11% increase in applications and a total of $1.2 million in grants awarded—marking a 20% rise from the previous year's allocation of $1 million. This surge indicates a growing recognition of the importance of community support.

Among the notable nonprofit grantees this year were organizations such as HomeFront, the Boys & Girls Club of Newark, and the Northern NJ Community Foundation, each of which has successfully transformed the lives of thousands through dedicated service.

HomeFront: Elevating Families in Need

HomeFront, a key partner within the NPP, has been instrumental in providing shelter, food, and housing support to over 25,500 New Jersey residents, including more than 700 individuals who have achieved permanent housing. With the aid of this year’s NPP grant, the organization sustained its Food Pantry Program, delivering over 1 million free meals and groceries to struggling families in the region.

"HomeFront is deeply grateful to the PSEG Foundation for helping us transform lives and pave the way for brighter futures," remarked Meghan Cubano, Director of Development for HomeFront.

Boys & Girls Club of Newark: Enriching Lives through STEM

For more than two decades, the Boys & Girls Club of Newark has benefited from PSEG’s generous funding, receiving over $600,000 to support essential services such as STEM education and family resource programs.

"PSEG's partnership has helped us serve thousands of youths and their families," stated Ameer Washington, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Newark. "Their support during the COVID-19 pandemic was vital, and the ongoing commitment from leaders like Calvin Ledford Jr. and Maria Spina makes them part of our family in serving Newark."

Northern NJ Community Foundation: Advancing Environmental Justice

The Northern NJ Community Foundation (NNJCF) utilized NPP funding to launch its Green Infrastructure for Environmental Justice Program, which addresses pressing issues of flooding and other environmental challenges.

"With the PSEG Foundation's support, we've created a model rain garden and environmentally-focused public art projects, all while fostering a resident-led group focused on advancing environmental justice initiatives," explained Leo Vasquez, Executive Director of NNJCF.

Looking Ahead

As the PSEG Foundation reflects on its past achievements, it also looks to the future with a commitment to enhance the Neighborhood Partners Program to meet the evolving needs of communities. The foundation continues to seek innovative ways to adapt its funding strategies, ensuring that all communities can thrive in a more sustainable and equitable New Jersey.

For a comprehensive list of 2024 grant recipients and detailed information about the PSEG Foundation's programs, visit PSEG.com/Foundation.

About PSEG Foundation

The PSEG Foundation, a 501(c)(3) entity, serves as the philanthropic arm of Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) (NYSE: PEG). It prioritizes investments dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability, social justice, and economic empowerment.