PSE donates over $600,000 to nonprofits

The Puget Sound Energy Foundation announced that it distributed more than $600,000 to local charitable organizations throughout Washington state in 2009, directing $244,500 in December alone to 62 organizations as part of the foundationÂ’s second round of grants.

None of the foundationÂ’s funds will ever come from PSEÂ’s utility customers.

“The Puget Sound Energy Foundation is honored to be able to support so many vital community organizations and programs in 2009, particularly during these times of economic hardship,” said Bert Valdman, interim acting chair and vice president of the Puget Sound Energy Foundation. “These deserving organizations make a positive difference in our communities and region and we’re proud to be able to help them further their important work.”

The December round of funding, the seventh since the foundationÂ’s inception in 2006, supports community programs in environmental stewardship, education, the arts and culture, with a particular emphasis on human services. Half of the grants in this round were allocated to organizations that respond to the needs of vulnerable populations.

Ranging in size from $1,000 to $25,000, the grants are awarded based on a competitive review process to qualifying charitable organizations in Puget Sound EnergyÂ’s 16-county service and broader operations area.

The Puget Sound Energy FoundationÂ’s first round of 2009 funding, announced in June, distributed $119,000 in charitable grants to 42 local organizations in Washington. Funding from the foundation also went to support PSEÂ’s United Way and ArtsFund campaigns and employee matching program.