Co-ops donate year-end dollars to fire departments, food pantries

Electric cooperatives do more than just provide a necessary service to their members; they also have a vested interest in the success of the communities they serve. They show a commitment to these communities in various ways, including monetary donations to nonprofit organizations.

Between Great River Energy and one of its member-owner cooperatives, 20 food pantries and 23 fire departments received surprise donations this past holiday season.

East Central Energy Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Lisa Prachar and Director Joe Morley, a former firefighter who served 23 years with the Cambridge Fire Department, with the donation check.

Braham, Minnesota-based East Central Energy took the budgeted money it had left over from canceled events in 2021 due to the pandemic and put it toward fire departments that have been busier than ever with increased outdoor activity during this time. In total, the cooperative donated $96,600 to 23 departments across its 14-county service area.

“Last year, we donated year-end dollars to food programs,” said East Central Energy Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Lisa Prachar. “This year, we want to help another group of everyday heroes by lessening their financial load. Putting on a heavy uniform and running toward a dangerous situation is the definition of bravery. We can’t thank these men and women enough for the valuable service they provide.”

For its part, Great River Energy put its Minnesota corporate contributions team’s remaining balance of $22,000 toward 20 food pantries across the state. Food shelves as far north as Grand Rapids and as far south as Trimont received checks for $1,100 to help them purchase more supplies for families in need.

Great River Energy’s corporate contribution team provides funds year-round for nonprofits that do the greatest amount of good for the greatest number of its member-consumers, as well as communities where the co-op owns facilities.