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Duke Energy's Commitment to Community Support

As the holiday season approaches and temperatures begin to plummet, Duke Energy is more focused than ever on assisting families in need. Together with its partners, the energy company is spearheading initiatives that ensure community members remain safe, warm, and connected. The organization’s latest efforts are aimed at providing crucial energy assistance, particularly to those who are struggling financially during the colder months.

Making a Meaningful Impact

Duke Energy, along with contributions from its employees and customers, has successfully raised over $6.4 million via its Share the Light Fund. This remarkable collective effort is aimed at bolstering local community agencies, which work tirelessly to help families maintain warm and powered homes during difficult circumstances. With the support of the Duke Energy Foundation — which contributed more than a third of the total — the initiative has become a critical resource for those seeking help.

Loree Elswick, president of the Duke Energy Foundation, underscores the importance of community connection: “Behind every request for help is a story — a family, a friend, a community member working to get through a tough time. Through Share the Light Fund and our local partners, we're able to support our neighbors in their moment of need.” This support has a profound impact on local families who may otherwise struggle to pay their bills amid freezing temperatures.

Partnerships Driving Change

Partnerships play a significant role in the success of the Share the Light Fund. For instance, Shelly Biby, the Chief Advancement Officer of the Crisis Assistance Ministry, highlighted how the fund allows their organization to quickly and effectively deliver essential assistance to households in need. “Supporting families through winter starts with partnership,” she states. “Duke Energy's Share the Light Fund empowers us to reach households swiftly with the help they need.” It’s these collaborative efforts that allow communities to come together, creating a safety net for neighbors in need.

A Long-Term Vision

Since 2022, Duke Energy has committed to a long-term vision of supporting local nonprofit partners, contributing over $11 million to facilitate energy assistance. This commitment not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for sustainable support systems within communities. The investments help bridge the gap for families facing hardship while promoting long-term resilience.

Accessing Assistance

Duke Energy offers various resources to help those in need during this harsh winter season. Customers looking for assistance are encouraged to use Duke Energy's Payment Assistance Finder, which connects them with local agencies ready to provide aid. This online tool makes it easier for families to navigate the available support systems tailored to their individual needs.

Opportunities to Contribute

Beyond receiving help, individuals are encouraged to give back by donating to the Share the Light Fund. Options include setting up a recurring or one-time contribution, allowing those who are able to support efforts to bring warmth and connection to others in their community. This philanthropically-driven initiative exemplifies how individuals can come together to create positive change.

Duke Energy: A Leader in Energy Solutions

Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the largest energy holding companies in America. They serve approximately 8.6 million customers across multiple states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. With a focus on building a smart energy future, Duke is committed to boosting grid reliability and delivering cleaner energy solutions through innovative technologies.

For more information about the Share the Light Fund, and to learn how to participate in this essential community project or discover more about Duke Energy’s initiatives, visit duke-energy.com or follow their updates on social media platforms. Together, we can make a significant difference this winter and beyond.