#United States #Newark #community support #PSEG Foundation #Neighborhood Partners

PSEG Foundation Strengthens Community Support

The PSEG Foundation is excited to announce the opening of its 2026 Neighborhood Partners Program (NPP), extending support to nonprofits in New Jersey and Long Island. With a generous fund of $1.2 million, the program aims to empower organizations that provide essential services, including utility assistance and food support, impacting lives across local communities.

Grants Available for Nonprofits

Organizations located in New Jersey and Long Island can apply between June 1 and June 30, 2026, with grant amounts ranging from $500 to $15,000. This initiative reflects PSEG's commitment to enhancing community well-being, focusing on programs aimed at mitigating food insecurity, enhancing workforce development, and supporting housing needs.

"The NPP has made a significant impact since its inception in 2014, distributing over $9.8 million to more than 825 organizations. This goes to show our dedication towards fostering stronger communities," stated Calvin Ledford Jr., President of the PSEG Foundation.

Historical Contributions

Significant portions of the previous funding have led to improved community resources. Notably, over $600,000 has addressed food insecurity through various initiatives, while more than $3.7 million has been allocated to health and human service organizations. Additionally, support in the form of $2.4 million has bolstered educational programs, enhancing STEAM education and youth development initiatives.

The Need for Community Based Support

As families continue to face economic challenges, this program uniquely positions the PSEG Foundation to form partnerships with nonprofits dedicated to lifting communities out of hardship. "Caring for our communities means elevating those organizations that guide individuals to essential services," said Ledford.

Organizations aiming to apply for these grants are selected based on their demonstrated effectiveness in promoting affordability, community well-being, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Not just financial aid, but also partnerships that allow for sustained community growth and development.

Examples of Benefited Organizations

Past collaborations with organizations that have benefited immensely from the program include NJ 211, which connects residents with utility assistance and various health services. CEO Melissa Acree highlights the importance of raising awareness about available aid that the organization offers. Their collaboration with PSEG has allowed them to reach thousands through community events and educational outreach.

Similarly, Trenton Area Soup Kitchen (TASK) has seen tremendous growth due to the support from the Neighborhood Partners Program. With an ongoing commitment to ensuring families have access to nutritious meals, TASK has utilized funding to enhance initiatives like their community kitchen and mobile meal services, bridging critical gaps in food access.

Continued Commitment to Community

The PSEG Foundation is not only committed to supporting existing programs but also seeks to innovate and collaborate with schools and other community-centric organizations. By partnering with trusted entities such as Sustainable Jersey and Montclair State University, the Foundation nurtures initiatives that push for long-term change and resilience in the community.

After 25 years of impactful work, the PSEG Foundation has allocated over $138 million to support numerous community-focused initiatives. As they forge ahead with the NPP, anticipation builds around the continued positive impact on community welfare in New Jersey and Long Island.

Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the PSEG Foundation website for more details on applying for the Neighborhood Partners Program, emphasizing that the grants will be announced on an ongoing basis.

For further inquiries, please reach out through the provided communication channels on the PSEG Foundation website.