Duke Energy Foundation Donates $1 Million to Support North Carolina Nonprofits Serving Low-Income Communities

The Duke Energy Foundation is donating $1 million to aid nonprofits that serve low-income communities in North Carolina, where the cost of basic necessities is increasing. These grants will enhance the capabilities of local organizations that provide essential services such as food and shelter to North Carolinians.

Kendal Bowman, president of Duke Energy North Carolina, stated that the company’s long-term success is closely linked to the health of the communities it serves. He added that many nonprofits have seen an unprecedented surge in demand in recent years, and these grants are intended to help them expand their capacity to meet this increased need.

In Raleigh, Oak City Cares has experienced a 97% increase in demand from Wake County and the surrounding area. Kathy Johnson, executive director of Oak City Cares, expressed her gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Duke Energy and the Duke Energy Foundation. She stated that their investment will help Oak City Cares expand its capacity to serve guests in meeting their basic needs and achieving stable housing. In addition to financial support, Duke Energy is also providing volunteers and in-kind resources.

In Winston-Salem, Crisis Control Ministry has seen a significant increase in requests for assistance, with volunteers interviewing over 200 potential clients each week. The organization has helped more than 100,000 residents of Stokes and Forsyth County meet their basic needs over its fifty-year history, and it expects the need for assistance with rent, food, and prescriptions to continue to grow.
 
“Over the years, Duke Energy has been a wonderful partner to Crisis Control Ministry in our mission to support our neighbors in times of crisis,” said Margaret Elliott, Executive Director of Crisis Control Ministry.
 
“We are always looking for ways to better serve our community, and the recent grant awarded by Duke Energy will make it easier and more convenient for our neighbors to access our services.”
 
Grants were awarded to the following 39 nonprofits in North Carolina  across the state.
Organization County