The stories are everywhere. Just as things started to close in response to COVID-19, communities large and small responded by opening their hearts. Neighbors and local organizations jumped into action, looking out for each other with offers of help.
The incredible work we’re seeing now confirms something that we here at Pacific Power have known all along: the greatness in our communities lies in their generosity, their resilience and their willingness to meet the biggest challenges head on. That’s why, through our Pacific Power Foundation, we’ve donated $250,000 to community-based, nonprofit organizations throughout Washington, Oregon and California to help further their positive impact.
Here are a few of the stories of community groups we’re proud to support.
Delivering hope in Jackson County
As schools and businesses closed their doors, Jackson County’s residents sprang into action. Fueled by a devoted team, donations from community members and a surge of volunteers, United Way of Jackson County has been responding to requests day and night since the group opened its COVID-19 Response Fund. Their goal: to help community members with critical daily needs like housing, childcare, food and healthcare—and to do it quickly. They’ve already provided over $377,000 to more than 1,100 families and 42 nonprofits, bringing help and a sense of hope when it’s needed most.
Keeping the community spirit alive in Albany
When the impact of COVID-19 began to be felt in Albany, Community LendingWorks stepped in with support for small businesses like Southpaw’s Pizza, a beloved community mainstay with a longstanding commitment to youth sports. Community LendingWorks has been offering rapid-turn, low-interest emergency loans to small businesses to help bridge any gaps from federal funds, as well as technical assistance to help businesses navigate this new territory. The work is doing more than just keeping these businesses alive—it’s keeping the spirit and energy of the community alive, too.
Nourishing community in Portland
Taking care of Oregon’s most vulnerable populations has always been a top priority for Portland Rescue Mission. With new social distancing requirements and stressed food banks, they’ve never needed support more than now. They’ve been able to ramp up from 900 to 1,500 meals daily and extend delivery to temporary tent locations. Thanks to the creativity and commitment of one of our own employees, they’ve also begun offering virtual yoga classes for guests of their women’s shelter and recovery program, supporting both physical and emotional health and well-being.
Helping Central Oregon’s youngest stay connected
When their Head Start preschool closed due to COVID-19, NeighborImpact knew they had to get creative to keep their students engaged. They came up with a strategy to help families continue their children’s learning, including digital lesson plans, virtual storytimes and an app that allows for regular check-ins with teachers. That’s been a big deal for families. As parent Amanda Peterson said, these resources have kept her child connected to his teacher, helping him maintain a sense of normalcy in spite of the situation. Beyond these lessons, NeighborImpact is also helping families with homeowner counseling, utility assistance, food, and mental health resources. Their mission to provide hope and optimism to their community shows the true power of neighbors helping neighbors.
These are historic and challenging times, but they’re also times that remind us of the power of connection and the incredible strength of our communities. If you are in a position to lend a helping hand, we invite you to join us in supporting those who are helping others.
If you find yourself in need of support and have concerns about your own bill, contact our customer care specialists at 1-888-221-7070. We’re here to help.
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