#United States #Pennsylvania #FirstEnergy Foundation #Greensburg #Housing Stability

FirstEnergy Foundation’s Commitment to Housing Stability in Pennsylvania

In a significant move to bolster housing stability across Pennsylvania, the FirstEnergy Foundation has announced an impactful investment of $115,000 in support of 14 organizations dedicated to providing essential housing assistance and services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and domestic violence. This initiative is a part of the broader mission to promote safety and stability within vulnerable communities.

Among the various organizations receiving funding is the Blackburn Center, a critical resource for survivors of domestic violence in Westmoreland County. For nearly five decades, the Blackburn Center has been at the forefront of assisting those in perilous situations, making it a pivotal player in the local landscape. With a grant of $5,000 from FirstEnergy Foundation, the center can bolster its shelter operations, enhance the provision of basic necessities, and sustain vital programs aimed at offering safety and support.

John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, expressed pride in supporting this vital work, acknowledging the significant role Blackburn Center plays in the community. He cited, "The Blackburn Center provides a lifeline for individuals and families facing some of life's most difficult circumstances. For nearly 50 years, the organization has delivered safe shelter, compassionate support, and critical resources. We’re proud to support that mission."

The financial support from FirstEnergy is complemented by a philanthropic initiative from its employees, who have organized donation drives to gather essential items for the Blackburn Center. These contributions are essential in meeting the immediate needs of families and individuals within the shelter, enhancing their quality of support during times of crisis.

Renee Reitz, Executive Director of Blackburn Center, conveyed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, "Blackburn Center is incredibly grateful for this generous donation and FirstEnergy's support of our mission. The items will help meet the needs of the individuals and families we serve while the financial contribution will support our clients and help sustain our emergency shelter program. We sincerely appreciate the generosity and the difference it makes in our community."

In addition to the Blackburn Center, various other organizations across the state will benefit from the funding, which spans a diverse range of support services:

• - General Shelters: Opportunity House (Berks County), Hope Rescue Mission (Berks County), Housing Transitions (Centre County), Valley Youth House (Northampton County)
• - Domestic Violence Shelters: Safe Berks (Berks County), Family Services Inc. (Blair County), SafeNet Erie (Erie County), AWARE, Inc. (Mercer County), Women’s Resources of Monroe County (Monroe County), Bloom for Women (Northampton County), Third Street Alliance for Women and Children (Northampton County), A Safe Place (Warren County), YWCA York (York County).

This initiative is part of FirstEnergy Foundation's expanded Shelter, Safety, and Stability program, aimed at supporting organizations that provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and critical services for families facing crises. This year marked a notable expansion in funding, with an increase from $100,000 to $500,000 for the initiative, demonstrating FirstEnergy’s long-term commitment to community welfare.

Since its inception in 2020, the FirstEnergy Foundation has allocated over $1.6 million to aid those in need of shelter and stability, highlighting a significant portion—nearly $700,000—specifically dedicated to organizations that cater to domestic violence survivors.

As part of its broader mission, the FirstEnergy Foundation dedicates itself to supporting 501(c)(3) organizations across its operational area, providing resources and assistance to help them strengthen their impact within communities. The Foundation's focus areas include housing stability, hunger relief, workforce development, and STEM initiatives that reflect local community needs while aligning with the company’s strategic objectives.

To date, the Foundation has distributed upward of $6.5 million in community support throughout its service region in 2026, reaffirming FirstEnergy Corporation’s commitment to integrity, safety, and operational excellence in all its pursuits. As one of the nation’s leading investor-owned electric systems, FirstEnergy serves over six million customers and operates approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines connecting the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. For more information, follow FirstEnergy online at firstenergycorp.com, or on social media platforms like Twitter @FirstEnergyCorp.