April 27, 2020

“We can’t thank the FirstEnergy Foundation enough for its support during this time. We’ve seen an increase in demand for assistance and have been working diligently to distribute emergency food boxes. The funds will help us continue our efforts to serve those who wouldn’t typically find themselves in need of assistance. FirstEnergy’s generosity means the world to us – and to those we serve.”

Chad Morrison, executive director, Mountaineer Food Bank, Gassaway, W.Va.

“On behalf of our clients, I want to thank the FirstEnergy Foundation for the donation. Our mission to assist low-income families reach their goal of self-sufficiency is even more challenging during the coronavirus pandemic.”

George Newman, president/CEO of Washington County Community Action Council, a United Way agency in Hagerstown, Md.

Those are just two of the many thank-you messages we’ve received in appreciation of the FirstEnergy Foundation’s recent contribution to foodbanks and United Way agencies in our service area. We donated $500,000 to 42 local food banks and hunger centers to help provide essential food and nutrition to those who need it the most during the COVID-19 pandemic. And we accelerated payment of approximately $1.5 million in matching contributions to 116 United Way agencies to help support vital health and human services organizations during this critical period.

“We’re extremely pleased to hear from the agencies who are benefitting from our contribution. We have received so many encouraging words of thanks and gratitude,” said Lorna Wisham, vice president, Corporate Affairs & Community Involvement, and president of the FirstEnergy Foundation. “The pandemic requires an urgent and strategic response from the philanthropic community, and fast-tracking funding to our United Way agencies for operational and program support and aiding our local food banks are ways FirstEnergy can help.”

Among the many thank-you messages coming in was this one from the NORWESCAP Food Bank in Phillipsburg, N.J.

“On behalf of NORWESCAP and those in the communities we serve, I would like to thank FirstEnergy for its generous contribution. Your donation helps organizations throughout Hunterdon, Sussex and Warren counties, and with every dollar donated, we’re able to provide 14 pounds of food for a local family in need.”

Helene Meissner, food bank director

And here is praise from the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, serving Allegheny, Butler, Westmoreland, Fayette and southern Armstrong counties:

“Thank you for all you are doing to support our communities as we navigate the COVID-19 crisis. Your longstanding support and partnership with United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is greatly appreciated as is your acceleration of the corporate matching gift. Please know that we will be using these funds to meet urgent community needs.”

Bobbi Watt Geer, president and CEO

A special message from Dan Flowers, President and CEO, Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, highlighted the organization’s proud partnership with FirstEnergy.

“Thank you so much for your gift as we are urgently responding to the COVID-19 crisis. Because of your compassion and generous spirit, you are assisting our community during this unprecedented time by helping us get food to our most vulnerable neighbors.

Perhaps the Greater Cleveland Food Bank said it best:

“Your generosity is a lifeline to our hungry neighbors all year round, but it especially makes a difference as our community faces an increased need during these uncertain times.”

Kristin Warzocha, president and CEO