FirstEnergy Foundation Spreads Holiday Cheer with Grants to Ohio Nonprofits

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving shines brightly through the efforts of the FirstEnergy Foundation, which recently announced $20,000 in grant awards as part of its annual "Gifts of the Season" program. This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations making significant contributions to local communities served by FirstEnergy Corp. These grants will be shared equally between two organizations making a profound impact in Ohio: the Martin Luther King Kitchen for the Poor in Toledo and the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley in Youngstown.

Supporting Local Communities

In this 2025 season, the FirstEnergy Foundation has committed to distributing a total of $100,000 to various nonprofit organizations across its service area, which spans five states. The selected charities for this year’s "Gifts of the Season" program in Ohio exemplify the foundation's commitment to combating food insecurity and homelessness.

Martin Luther King Kitchen for the Poor

The Martin Luther King Kitchen for the Poor, located in the heart of Toledo, plays a pivotal role in feeding the community's vulnerable populations. With the help of the $10,000 grant, the kitchen is set to enhance its services, which already include providing over 200 meals daily to individuals and families in need. In 2024, the kitchen successfully served approximately 36,500 meals and distributed about 3,000 food boxes, significantly alleviating hunger in the southern Toledo area. The grant will further bolster their efforts to ensure that school children and the elderly have access to nutritious meals, especially during the harsh winter months.

Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley

Similarly, the Rescue Mission of the Mahoning Valley in Youngstown has been tirelessly working to address homelessness and hunger through comprehensive support services. The Foundation's grant will enhance their ability to provide meals and shelter to individuals in crisis. Over the last year, they offered more than 130,000 meals and provided overnight shelter to over 1,000 people, including families. Their work is vital, especially with the looming challenges brought on by winter, where warm shelter can be a lifeline for many.

Commitment to Community

Torrence Hinton, the Ohio President of FirstEnergy, emphasized the importance of community support during the holiday season. He stated, "The holidays can be especially tough for families in need, and colder weather adds even more pressure. For neighbors without a warm bed or a place to call home, Ohio's harsh conditions make shelter a lifeline. Thanks to the incredible work of our nonprofit partners, more people will have access to warm meals, safe shelter, and the care they deserve." This commitment not only reflects the philanthropic values of the company but also its dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive community for all residents.

Celebrating a Decade of Giving

As the program marks its 10th anniversary, the "Gifts of the Season" initiative continues to adapt and expand as it addresses the evolving needs of the community. Since its inception, the program has distributed an impressive $1.2 million in grants, reinforcing FirstEnergy's role as a leader in corporate social responsibility. The Foundation focuses on enabling nonprofits that meet critical local needs in food security and housing security.

By funding initiatives that promote community well-being, the FirstEnergy Foundation showcases how partnerships with local organizations foster resilience within communities. In 2025 alone, the Foundation has provided over $5.5 million in community support across its operational areas, underscoring its commitment to serving as a beacon of hope during the holiday season and beyond.

For more details on the FirstEnergy Foundation and its various initiatives, please visit their official website. Together, the contributions from the community and FirstEnergy's dedicated support bring light into the lives of many, especially during this giving season.