Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) members have once again demonstrated their commitment to the community by supporting local food shelves and other vital programs through the Pierce Pepin Cares Foundation. At their October meeting, the Pierce Pepin Cares board awarded $17,600 in grants to eight food pantries, each receiving $2,200. The beneficiaries include Pierce County Food Pantry, Elmwood Food Pantry, Plum City Food Pantry, Prescott Area Food Shelf, River Falls Food Pantry, Spring Valley Community Food Pantry, Pepin County Food Pantry, and Pepin-Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Food Pantry.
In addition to supporting food pantries, the Pierce Pepin Cares board awarded a $250 grant to the Landmark Conservancy for protection of an eight-mile segment of the Chippewa River State Trail, $500 to Lost Creek Ranch Therapeutic Riding & Horse Rescue to assist with operating costs, $1,000 to Heart to purchase necessities for families in need, $1,000 to Our Neighbors Place to support gaps in service following the closure of Assistance & Resource Center (ARC), and $1,000 to Ellsworth Fire Department for a battery-powered cut-off saw. During the October member appreciation breakfast, PPCS members donated almost 300 pounds of non-perishable food and $315 in cash to the Pierce County Food Pantry, and multiple bags of clothing and $132 in cash to Basics for Local Kids.
The recipients of these grants expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the generosity of PPCS members who participate in Operation Round Up®, Pierce Pepin Cares' primary funding source. Members enrolled in this program contribute approximately $6 annually, but the collective impact is substantial. For instance, each dollar donated to food pantries can be leveraged to purchase $5-7 worth of food for those in need.
“Concern for Community is one of our core cooperative principles. We are deeply thankful to our members who show their commitment to the community by participating in Operation Round Up,” said Nate Boettcher, PPCS president and CEO. “Their contributions significantly impact the support for programs that enhance well-being and ensure everyone feels safe and secure in our communities.”
PPCS members support the Pierce Pepin Cares Foundation by rounding up their electric bills to the nearest dollar each month or by donating a specific amount. This program provides charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations that enhance the quality of life within the communities served by the cooperative. PPCS employees also host an annual fundraiser and contribute the funds to Pierce Pepin Cares.
Pierce Pepin Cares grants are awarded quarterly by the Pierce Pepin Cares board of directors. Nonprofit organizations interested in applying can visit www.piercepepin.coop or call 800-924-2133 for more information. The next application deadline is December 15.