Duquesne Light Co. has reopened its annual Community Impact Grants program that awards diverse, grassroots community organizations in Allegheny and Beaver counties with microgrants of up to $10,000 to support projects and programs that benefit the Pittsburgh region.
Aligned with DLC’s mission to advance a clean energy future for all, this year’s program will once again fund efforts in environmental justice, education and social equity, according to a news release, specifically:
- Community gardens; park upgrades and restorations; climate resilience projects.
- Programs supporting K-12 education in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math; access or increased access to technology; purchasing equipment for educational programming or increased capacity.
- Programs benefiting housing, racial equality, refugee assistance and access to food for historically disenfranchised communities.
Interested organizations can apply online until July 21. All applications will be reviewed by a committee of DLC employees, with final decisions being communicated to applicants within six weeks of the submission deadline.
“In addition to providing an essential service to our region, DLC has long been committed to investing in and elevating our communities through charitable giving and volunteerism,” said Sam Hartzman, senior manager of environmental, social and governance and corporate giving at DLC. “We’re grateful for the interest we’ve received from organizations across our service territory since the program’s inception.
“As DLC continues building upon our ESG strategy and advancing our region’s clean energy future, we are honored to give back in ways that benefit the people and communities we serve every day.”
DLC launched the CIG program in April 2021 and has since awarded more than $460,000 to nearly 100 local organizations, about 85% of which are diverse-led, according to DLC public relations officials.
For example, in 2022, Repair the World Pittsburgh was awarded a grant to continue its work at the Sheridan Ave. Orchard and Garden. This garden provides healthy local produce to the East End Cooperative Ministry Food Pantry, as well as educates volunteers and the public on the value of regenerative agriculture.
In 2021, Computer Reach, located in Wilkinsburg, was awarded a grant to refurbish and configure computers for digital inclusion and literacy programs that not only serve children and families but also older adults. Individuals who participate in the inclusion and literacy programs receive a computer, internet access, 1-1 in-person home setup and training, classes on computer and software skills, and online safety and basic internet skills.
To learn more about the program and application process, visit DuquesneLight.com/CIG.
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