$5,000 PPL grant awarded to Greater Scranton YMCA

Posted on January 1, 2025 by The Dunmorean

The Greater Scranton YMCA is pleased to announce it has received a $5,000 grant from the PPL Foundation. These funds will support the Y’s Summer Scholars Program, a free six-week summer learning program.

The goal of Summer Scholars is to prevent summer learning loss for children from low-income families through a combination of literacy instruction (using the Four Blocks Model), enrichment activities aligned to literacy instruction and positive youth development opportunities.

The program targets struggling readers and serves rising first, second and third grade students attending the Dunmore and Mid Valley School Districts.

“The Greater Scranton YMCA is so grateful to the PPL Foundation for their generosity,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO. “Thanks in part to this grant award, and additional support from local foundations, businesses, and proceeds from the Annual Harry P. McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament, our YMCA will continue providing the Summer Scholars Program for struggling readers in our community at no cost to families. It’s because of the

commitment of community partners like the PPL Foundation that we are able to serve those in need.”

For more information about the Summer Scholars Program, contact Helen Cruser, Education Director, at hcruser@gsymca.org.

Grant awarded to NeighborWorks NEPA

Posted on October 4, 2023 by The Dunmorean

NeighborWorks Northeastern Pennsylvania has announced a $2,500 grant from the PPL Foundation. These funds will support the Smart Home Technology for Older Adults program.

The Smart Home Technology for Older Adults program, a part of NeighborWorks’ Aging in Place program, which provides accessibility and critical safety modifications to older adults, allowing them to continue living safely and independently in their homes and communities. This program is made possible through a partnership with the University of Scranton’s Occupational Therapy Department and Lackawanna College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program.

The program includes the installation of smart home technology items such as Echo Shows, Ring Doorbells, Smart Plugs, Alexa units, and exterior solar lights. These devices enhance safety and independence for older adults, helping them with tasks like identifying visitors at the door, turning on lights, and setting medication reminders.

Mary Endrusick, NeighborWorks’ Aging in Place Manager, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The installation of these smart home devices will significantly improve the safety and quality of life for older adults in our community. We are grateful for the generous support of the PPL Foundation in making this program possible.”

Grant for Emergency Preparedness Kits

Posted on February 5, 2020 by The Dunmorean

hospice emergency kits

Hospice of the Sacred Heart has announced a $3,000 grant from the PPL Foundation to support the emergency preparedness kits being assembled for at home patients. Each kit will contain a flashlight, bottled water, medication pouch, hand sanitizer, whistle and blanket. Checklists and personalized plans will also be included.

Shown from left are: Linda Menichetti, COO, Hospice of the Sacred Heart; Alana Roberts, Regional Affairs Director, PPL Electric Utilities, and Diane Baldi, CEO, Hospice of the Sacred Heart.