Duke Energy is distributing $500,000 in grants through its 2025 Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) Grant Program to enhance emergency preparedness for severe weather across South Carolina. The funding will support over 38 government agencies and nonprofit organizations, each receiving up to $20,000. These grants aim to address training, equipment needs, and new technologies identified after recent severe weather events.
Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president, emphasized the importance of preparation following Hurricane Helene: “The one thing our company and communities learned in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene is you can never be too prepared for severe weather events. Now more than ever, we are committed to providing our fellow first responders the tools and training they need to handle whatever Mother Nature throws our way.”
Nicholas W. Ray from North Spartanburg Firefighters Foundation noted the significance of new equipment: “The addition of this drone will enhance a vital cache of rescue equipment that was previously provided by the HERO grant program and has saved numerous lives, most recently during Hurricane Helene.”
Shannon Tanner, Fire Chief of Florence Fire Department, highlighted communication improvements: “Reliable communication is the backbone of effective emergency response… This funding will allow us to implement a much-needed vehicle repeater system.”
Dr. Mandy Gattis from South Carolina EMS Association pointed out organizational enhancements: “This funding represents a vital step toward building a more coordinated, rapid and effective medical response network for future large-scale emergencies.”
Justin Turner from Marion County spoke on learning from past disasters: “The past offers us valuable insights into the outcomes of previous disasters; insights we can study, record and learn from.”
This initiative marks the fourth year of Duke Energy’s annual $500,000 microgrant program aimed at strengthening local responses to natural disasters. Since 2022, it has funded 137 microgrants supporting nonprofits and local agencies across South Carolina.
Duke Energy Foundation provides over $30 million annually in philanthropic support within communities served by Duke Energy. The company is headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., serving millions with both electric and natural gas utilities across several states.
For further information about Duke Energy’s initiatives or community support programs visit their website or follow them on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
