PEC awards nearly $30,000 in community grants to local nonprofits
Grants funded through co-op's Power of Change Program
Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) continues to brighten the Texas Hill Country with grants that support nonprofits in and around the co-op’s service territory. PEC recently awarded nearly $30,000 in fall grants to six nonprofits. Funds will be used toward projects that support the nonprofits in their missions to serve our communities.
PEC Community Grants are made possible through the generosity of members enrolled in the cooperative’s Power of Change Program. Through the program, members can enroll to have their electric bills rounded to the nearest dollar for charity. This fall, PEC expanded the Power of Change Program beyond members, inviting anyone to make a one-time donation via PayPal or Venmo.
“It’s incredible to see what just a little pocket change can do when we all band together,” said Caroline Tinsley Porter, PEC community relations manager. “The beauty of this program is that it doesn’t take much to give back. We hope those who haven’t yet enrolled, will consider donating to experience one of the most unique aspects of belonging to a cooperative.”
Since 2016, the program funded more than $300,000 in grants to 74 nonprofits.
Fall 2022 PEC Power of Change Grant Recipients
Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department received $5,000 to purchase two automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) for their emergency vehicles. The AEDs will help firefighters better respond to cardiac emergencies.
The Barnabas Connection will use its $4,000 grant to purchase and install LED lighting at its emergency operations facility. The nonprofit is dedicated to connecting the Wimberley Valley through community to change and improve lines.
Community Resource Centers of Texas Inc. (CRC) has a mission to create hope and change futures by working with providers and connecting people to resources. The nonprofit will use its $5,000 grant to fund new technology, including screens and audiovisual equipment, for meeting rooms. These upgrades will make it possible for CRC to provide virtual assistance to those in need.
Lometa Volunteer Fire Department received a $5,000 grant to build a new sub-station on the east side of town. This addition will help firefighters better respond to emergencies by providing increasing access to resources in more than one location.
Lonestar Fostering Connections supports Texans who have taken custody of their biological family members who are within the care of Texas Child Protective Services. The nonprofit will use its $5,000 grant to renovate a foster home that can house up to 50 children.
Marbridge Foundation provides important programs, residential care, camps, and long-term housing for adults with disabilities. The nonprofit will use its $5,000 grant to purchase and install automatic doors for a gym and wellness facility.
One-time donations can be made via Venmo @PECPowerofChange and PEC members interested in joining the program can enroll at pec.coop/change.