[Ellsworth, WI] – Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) members continued their tradition of giving this fall, supporting local food pantries and community programs through the Pierce Pepin Cares Foundation. At their October meeting, the Pierce Pepin Cares board awarded $16,000 in grants to eight food pantries, each receiving $2,000. The beneficiaries include Pierce County Food Pantry, Elmwood Food Pantry, Plum City Food Pantry, Prescott Area Food Shelf, River Falls Community Food Pantry, Pepin Food Pantry, Spring Valley Community Food Pantry, and Pepin County Food Pantry.
In addition to supporting food pantries, the Pierce Pepin Cares board awarded grants totaling $3,400 to Bridging Brighter Smiles, Inc., Free Clinic of Pierce and St. Croix Counties, Chippewa Valley Scouting, Elsie’s Barnyard, and HEART. During the October member appreciation breakfast, PPCS members donated over 175 pounds of non-perishable food and $125 in cash to the Pierce County Food Pantry, and multiple bags of clothing to Basics for Local Kids.
The impact of Operation Round Up®, Pierce Pepin Cares' primary funding source, continues to demonstrate the power of collective giving. PPCS members support this initiative by rounding up their electric bills to the nearest dollar each month or by donating a specific amount. While members enrolled in this program contribute approximately $6 each year, the impact is far-reaching, turning spare change into meaningful community support.
“Concern for Community isn’t just a cooperative principle; it’s something our members live every day. We are deeply thankful to those who show their commitment to our community by participating in Operation Round Up,” said Nate Boettcher, PPCS president and CEO. “This program allows us to invest directly into the organizations that keep our communities safe, supported, and thriving.”
Pierce Pepin Cares grants are awarded quarterly by the Pierce Pepin Cares board of directors. Nonprofit organizations interested in applying can visit www.piercepepin.coop or call 800-924-2133 for more information. The next application deadline is December 15.