#United States #Akron, Ohio #food insecurity #FirstEnergy Foundation #Hunger Action Month

Major Support to Combat Hunger in Ohio

The FirstEnergy Foundation is making a historic impact in Ohio through its Hunger Action Month initiative, allocating $535,000 in grants to 14 food banks and pantries across the state. This program, part of a larger $2.5 million commitment spanning six states, aims to provide vital support to those facing food insecurity. With this initiative, the foundation is projected to deliver over 1.5 million meals to families in need, highlighting its dedication to community welfare.

Addressing the Growing Crisis

According to recent reports from Feeding America and the USDA, food insecurity is a mounting crisis with significant ramifications for millions of Americans. In Ohio alone, approximately 1.8 million individuals, representing 15% of the population, grapple with hunger exacerbated by inflation, climate change, and supply chain disruptions. Torrence Hinton, President of FirstEnergy in Ohio, remarked, "The FirstEnergy Foundation embodies a proactive spirit, collaborating closely with local partners to alleviate hunger and enhance access to nutritious meals. Food is more than sustenance; it nurtures connections and strengthens community bonds. Our employees are deeply involved, volunteering their time, organizing food drives, and contributing to this critical mission."

The Impact of Grants

The distribution of these grants includes key allocations, such as:

• - Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank: $100,000
• - Greater Cleveland Food Bank: $100,000
• - Mid-Ohio Foodbank: $75,000
• - Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank: $75,000
• - Childrens Hunger Alliance: $25,000
• - Additional support to various local programs to ensure a comprehensive reach.

These funds are essential in enabling local food banks to effectively support families, ensuring they have access to healthy and nutritious meals. Hinton emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "This endeavor aligns perfectly with our goal to nourish not just through energy but through universal access to healthy food."

Employee Involvement and Community Engagement

FirstEnergy's commitment extends beyond financial support; the foundation also empowers its employees through Volunteer Time Off (VTO), allowing them to engage directly with local nonprofits. In 2024, employees dedicated over 26,000 hours to community service initiatives, focusing on local food banks and other critical organizations. This hands-on approach fosters a culture of giving back among FirstEnergy's workforce and enhances community bonds.

The collaborative effort seen in the Hunger Action Month initiative underscores a long-standing devotion to fighting food insecurity, where FirstEnergy Foundation and its personnel have raised nearly $7 million through various campaigns over the past 23 years. In the last few years alone, they have donated more than $650,000 directly to nonprofits focused on hunger relief.

A Legacy of Commitment

The FirstEnergy Foundation's efforts reflect a robust legacy of support for community needs. Their recent commitment of nearly $800,000 to hunger-related initiatives demonstrates an ongoing dedication to addressing the escalating crisis of food insecurity. Combined with the ongoing funding during Hunger Action Month, the total contributions surpass $4 million in community support for 2025.

Through these actions, FirstEnergy not only provides essential services to its customers but also plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for those in underserved communities. As one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the United States, serving over six million customers, FirstEnergy's responsibilities extend well beyond energy provision. It is a commitment marked by integrity, reliability, and community spirit.

For those interested in following along with FirstEnergy’s initiatives or engaging further, updates and volunteer opportunities can be found through their social media channels and official website.

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The FirstEnergy Foundation’s expansive reach and vital contributions are a shining example of how corporations can effectively foster community resilience, particularly in times of hardship. It is a clarion call for businesses nationwide to get involved in local support efforts and tackle hunger head-on.