At a recent meeting, the PIE&G Communities First Fund Board of Directors finalized awards of $15,907.11 in grants to the recipients listed below.

ALPENA

Alpena Youth Center ($1,200) for the purchase of one oven for their kitchen to help them prepare nutritious and homemade meals that follow USDA food guidelines. They are a childcare center that feeds 75-100 children each day (breakfast, lunch, and snack).

Foster Closet of Northern MI ($2,500) for the purchase of supplies that are required for the foster children’s basic needs, such as: underwear, socks, diapers, baby wipes, beds and so much more. They also hold special events for foster families such as an upcoming Easter egg hunt.

CHEBOYGAN

Alverno Fire B’s Association ($499) for the purchase of smoke detectors to give out during their Community Open House event. They are holding the open house so that youth and families can explore and learn about fire safety in a safe and interactive environment.

Forest Waverly Township Fire Department ($5,000) for the purchase of 13 self-contained breathing apparatus packs. Self-contained breathing apparatus packs are a personal protective equipment that supplies breathable air to the firefighters in dangerous environments with oxygen deficiency, smoke and dangerous gases. The equipment allows them to enter areas that pose an immediate danger to life and health.

Rivertown Follies, Inc ($508.11) for the purchase of supplies for the set of their 2025 show. Proceeds of the Rivertown Follies 2025 show benefit local charities.

MONTMORENCY

Hillman Community Schools ($2,000) for the purchase of new band chairs. The chairs and stands they currently use are well-worn and past their acceptable and reasonable period of use. The band is growing, and they also do not have enough chairs and stands for the next year.

Tri Township Ambulance Service ($2,200) for the purchase of 10 rescue jackets to help them provide services in the cold weather. Crews are subjected to lengthy periods outside in the elements for auto rescues, ice rescues, lost individuals, and other circumstances.

PRESQUE ISLE

Presque Isle Conservation District ($2,000) towards the cost of materials to improve the trails at Herman Vogler Conservation Area. Trails are being made wider with more even surfaces to improve access to people with differing levels of mobility.

About the Communities First Fund

The PIE&G Communities First Fund has supported local organizations since 1998, funding vital projects for emergency responders, youth programs, and more.

You can help by rounding up your utility or fiber internet bill—a few cents a month can change lives! On average, members contribute only about 50 cents monthly, totaling around $6 each year, and every donation is tax-deductible.

Together, we can make a BIG difference—over $1.5 million has already been returned to northeast Michigan!

Enroll today by visiting pieg.com/communities-first or calling 800-423-6634.