FirstEnergy Foundation Spreads Holiday Cheer with Grants for Pennsylvania Nonprofits

FirstEnergy Foundation Spreads Holiday Cheer

This holiday season, the FirstEnergy Foundation is embracing the spirit of giving by allocating a total of $20,000 in grants through its “Gifts of the Season” initiative. This program aims to uplift two notable nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania, enhancing their ability to serve the community amidst the challenges posed by the festive season.

In a region where food and housing insecurity are pressing concerns, these grants serve as a lifeline to enhance the support provided to families and individuals in need. Each nonprofit organization will receive an award of $10,000, contributing crucial resources that directly impact the lives of those facing hardship.

The Endless Mountain Mission Center, a well-regarded nonprofit in the Troy area, will utilize its grant to deliver essential services. Each year, the center plays a pivotal role in helping between 70 to 100 individuals and families by offering necessary housing assistance, which includes providing rental and utility aid. With this financial support, they will continue to ensure food security and stable shelter for families, reinforcing their mission to create a vibrant community.

Similarly, the Erie Center for Arts and Technology (ECAT) is set to benefit significantly from the grant influx. With its focus on fostering workforce skills among local youth, ECAT will fund a student food pantry and expand its workforce training programs. In 2024 alone, the center succeeded in enrolling 84 students, with 100% of its construction trades graduates securing full-time employment. This investment will not only enhance resources for the existing students but also support more than two dozen additional learners in their pursuit of professional development and economic stability.

John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, highlighted the importance of these grants, stating, "The holidays can be a tough time for those struggling with basic needs. We're committed to building stronger communities year-round, and through these 'Gifts of the Season' grants, we're supporting programs that provide immediate relief and create long-term opportunities."

As it commemorates the 10th anniversary of the “Gifts of the Season” program, FirstEnergy Foundation has demonstrated a long-term commitment to addressing essential community needs. Over the past decade, the Foundation has allocated a total of over $1.2 million to various local nonprofits, demonstrating its enduring dedication to elevating the welfare of the regions it serves.

Since its inception in 2016, the program has adapted and expanded to meet an array of community needs, reflecting FirstEnergy's core values of inclusion and care for the community. In 2025 alone, the Foundation has disbursed more than $5.5 million in community support throughout its operational area.

The FirstEnergy Foundation focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits that fulfill critical community needs relevant to the customers of FirstEnergy's electric service areas. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications but welcomes inquiries regarding grant opportunities or corporate sponsorships through their official website.

FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the United States, serving over six million customers in states including Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, among others. Their dedication to operational excellence and commitment to community welfare reinforces their role as a dependable partner in the energy sector. For more information on FirstEnergy’s initiatives and services, visit FirstEnergy's official website.