Duke Energy supports first responders with $500,000 in grants for emergency preparedness in South Carolina

GREENVILLE, S.C. – As hurricane season begins, emergency managers and first responders turn their eyes to the tropics as they continue to prepare their communities for the possibility of impacts from severe weather.

Duke Energy is preparing as well and stands in support of these communities across South Carolina by announcing $500,000 in microgrants through the Duke Energy Foundation. These funds will increase community resiliency and local ability to help residents prepare for and recover from the devastation brought by significant weather events.

“Preparing communities to respond to severe weather impacts begins in our neighborhoods and communities,” said Mike Callahan, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president. “Providing our fellow first responders with the tools and training to handle whatever Mother Nature throws our way is necessary in maintaining a resilient and prosperous South Carolina.”

Duke Energy’s Emergency Preparedness and Storm Resiliency Grant Program was designed to help organizations with roles in emergency preparedness increase their resiliency to these events through advanced preparation, planning, equipment and training. Applicants could request funds up to $20,000. Grants were awarded to 33 nonprofits and governmental entities across the state.

Oconee County received $20,000 to purchase inflatable rafts and swift water rescue equipment for emergency responders. The City of Walhalla was given $2,000 buy chainsaws, backpack blowers, hooks and chains for the response to post-severe weather. Other local organizations that received grant money from Duke’s Program include $19,000 for the City of Clemson to purchase a portable message board for evacuations related to high water or storms, and $20,000 for Anderson County to provide portable radios to critical need personnel.

A complete list of recipients can be found here.