Funding helps organizations deliver vital programs to families, youth and vulnerable communities – Pacific Power release – COOS BAY, Ore. (May 12, 2022) — Throughout the South Coast area, the safety and wellness of the community often begin with some of the hardest-working organizations, those focused on delivering services and programs that offer accessible food and housing, healthcare and mental health support, as well as disaster relief and public safety programs. Their work supports the region’s most vulnerable communities, many of which have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of its quarterly grant-giving, the Pacific Power Foundation, a nonprofit arm of Pacific Power, has announced $314,952 in new funding to directly support community organizations across the three states it serves. These safety and wellness grants are one of four grant cycles offered by the foundation year after year. “We’re proud to collaborate with our communities to build a strong, resilient future together,” said Sam Carter, Pacific Power regional business manager, southern Oregon coast. “These organizations are our local heroes – working tirelessly to deliver safety, health and wellness programs to neighbors in our communities, and we’re honored to support their work.” The following four grants were given to local South Coast organizations: Bear Cupboard to purchase food to be distributed through this food pantry to Coos County residents in need. Douglas CARES to help provide skill-building tools, including effective coping mechanisms, for abused and traumatized children. Myrtle Crest Elementary School to protect the health and wellness of students by providing physical education equipment for children to use at home when quarantined due to COVID exposure. United Way of Southwestern Oregon for Every Child Coos to support youth in foster care, foster parents, biological families and kinship families with health and wellness items, including car seats, safety gates and other essential articles.