FirstEnergy Foundation Provides $10,000 Grant to Support Flood Recovery in Marion County, WV

FirstEnergy Foundation Provides Critical Support for Flood Victims in Marion County

In a commendable act of community support, the FirstEnergy Foundation has announced a generous donation of $10,000 to the Tygart Valley United Way. This funding is specifically earmarked to aid individuals and families grappling with the aftermath of severe flash flooding in Marion County, which wreaked havoc earlier this summer. The flood, which occurred on June 15, resulted in substantial damage, impacting approximately 250 residents and displacing 25 families from their homes.

The funds donated by FirstEnergy will be utilized to provide vital emergency essentials, including clothing and cleaning supplies. Additionally, this allocation aims to assist those affected in securing permanent housing and replacing critical appliances such as water heaters and furnaces, which are essential for day-to-day living.

Jim Myers, President of FirstEnergy's West Virginia and Maryland operations, spoke about the devastating effects of the flooding. He stated, "The damage from the severe flash flooding in June was devastating for many of our Mon Power customers in Marion County and hit close to home for our employees in Fairmont. We know that recovering from such a loss is not easy. Through the FirstEnergy Foundation's donation to the Tygart Valley United Way, we hope to help light a path for flood victims as they rebuild."

The flooding resulted from an intense rainstorm that dumped up to three inches of rain in a short period, leading to significant devastation in the Fairmont area. Fortunately, emergency response efforts, including the West Virginia National Guard and local highway departments, have been working tirelessly to clear debris and restore normalcy to the affected communities. In total, nearly 8,000 tons of debris were removed from Ohio and Marion counties, which included materials from collapsed structures, underscoring the scale of the disaster.

Brett White, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tygart Valley United Way, expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s support. He emphasized the importance of such donations in providing tangible relief to those affected. "We’re grateful for this generous donation to our fund, which will enable us to provide tangible support to flood victims in Marion County and help them get back on their feet," said White.

For those who would like to support the flood recovery efforts, donations can be made to the Tygart Valley United Way’s assistance fund via their website at tvunitedway.org/donate or by calling 304-366-4550. Comprehensive information regarding flood resources is also available on their site. This initiative is a part of the larger commitment of the FirstEnergy Foundation, which supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to address the critical needs of communities served by FirstEnergy's electric operating companies.

As we reflect on this harsh episode of natural calamity, it becomes evident that community support plays a crucial role in recovery. The FirstEnergy Foundation has demonstrated a strong commitment to assisting its community, having presented over $2 million to various community needs in the first half of 2025 alone.

Mon Power, an operating division of FirstEnergy Corp., serves approximately 395,000 customers across 34 counties in West Virginia. The dedication to integrity, safety, reliability, and operational excellence is reflected not only in emergency responses but also in the long-term commitment to community welfare that organizations like the FirstEnergy Foundation embody. More information can be found at FirstEnergy online at firstenergycorp.com and follow them on social media for updates on their ongoing community support initiatives.