Alabama Power nonprofits pledge $1 million to coronavirus relief efforts

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March 19, 2020

Two philanthropic entities associated with Alabama Power Company have now pledged a total of $1 million to provide support to Yellowhammer State communities affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Alabama Power Foundation and the Alabama Business Charitable Trust Fund (ABC Trust) have pledged the money, as announced in a release on Thursday afternoon.

The foundation and trust are partnering with agencies including the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, United Way and others.

The Alabama Power Foundation is reportedly working with its nonprofit community partners to identify needs and find where gaps exist. Additionally, ABC Trust is collaborating with community action agencies to address food insecurity, medicine and hygiene needs, and energy assistance.

“Like other foundations, we are closely monitoring the local impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, and we are working with community members, government and business partners to determine how we can best offer support to those in need,” stated Alabama Power Foundation president Myla Calhoun. “As the situation continues to evolve, so will our giving efforts.”

Additional plans to provide community support include:

• Reallocating funds to provide accelerated assistance to organizations with a 501(c)3 status, including churches and faith-based organizations that are providing community relief programs.
• Coordinating with the Alabama Workforce Council to identify ways to support displaced workers.
• Partnering with other foundations to provide relief efforts to small businesses affected by this pandemic.

To get more information on the services and programs listed above, including links on how to apply for funds, click here.

Since its creation in 1989 with funds donated by company shareholders, the Alabama Power Foundation has supported communities, educational institutions and nonprofits in the state through over 20,000 grants and scholarships using non-ratepayer monies.

Alabama Power Company shareholders created the nonprofit ABC Trust in 1992 to supplement energy assistance efforts. The trust works with local community action agencies to help cover the cost of heating and cooling for low-income families and nonprofit agencies.

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn