As part of its Operation Round Up program, Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation this week announced the approval of more than $10,000 in emergency funding for summer lunch programs for local schools.
The money will be used to assist 24 local area schools served by Sawnee EMC in North Georgia. The donation boosts the total school lunch program contributions over the past 12 months to over $60,000 which have aided in feeding local area children in need.
The Foundation launched the school lunch program initiative in 2019 to assist with funding school lunches for children who may not have the means to purchase a "hot lunch." The newly-approved emergency funds will help to ensure that these at-risk students will continue to receive lunch during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The emergency grant was made possible by Sawnee EMC members who voluntarily participate in the Sawnee EMC Foundation Operation Round Up program, as well as funds from abandoned patronage capital.
"We are always excited to be able to help the children in our area. The school lunch program has proven to be successful and continues to build strong community relationships," said Blake House, Vice President of Member Services, in a media statement.
Through Operation Round Up, Sawnee members contribute an average of $6 per year, but these small donations have allowed the Foundation to donate over $3 Million back into the communities since 2003.
