The PPL Foundation has awarded a third round of grants for 2023, awarding $265,000 in Energizing Education Grants to nearly 40 nonprofits, including seven Lehigh Valley organizations creating equitable and engaging high-quality educational opportunities for students in communities throughout eastern and central Pennsylvania.

In all, the PPL Foundation awarded nearly $1 million in grants in 2023 to support the foundation’s focus areas: education; diversity, equity and inclusion; and sustainable communities.

Funds will be used to support programs that inspire students to pursue careers in STEM fields; promote literacy and summer learning; and prepare students for college and future career opportunities.

Energizing Education Grants, ranging from $2,500 to $20,000, were awarded to seven Lehigh Valley organizations:

• Bethlehem Area Education Foundation

• Casa Guadalupe Center, Allentown

• Greater Valley Young Men’s Christian Association, Allentown

• Manufacturers Resource Center, Allentown

• Northampton County Area Community College Foundation, Bethlehem

• The Literacy Center, Allentown

• Young Women’s Christian Association of Bethlehem

The foundation’s next round of grants - Powering Equity - is focused on supporting successful communities where all have the opportunity to thrive. Applications for Powering Equity grants will be accepted through Feb. 15. For more information, please visit pplcares.com.

Contributed article