ELLSWORTH –Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) is proud to announce the recipients of the Pierce Pepin Cares grants for the first quarter of 2026. Pierce Pepin Cares is funded by PPCS members who participate in Operation Round Up^®, rounding up their monthly energy bill and donating the change. This quarter, $2,750 in grants have been awarded to three local organizations making significant contributions to our community:

1. Ellsworth School Foundation – Gift Box Program: Sponsors local families in need during the holidays. This grant of $1,500 will help provide holiday gifts for local families during the 2026 holiday season.
2. Spring Valley Area Ambulance: Provides basic life support services to Spring Valley and surrounding communities. This grant of $500 will support the purchase of a new ambulance.
3. The Salvation Army of Pierce County: Assists community members with emergency and unexpected costs, supports shelters, and offers programming to residents in need. This grant of $750 will help support residents in need in 2026.

"We are honored to support these organizations dedicated to serving our community," said Nate Boettcher, president and CEO of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services. "Their efforts are invaluable, and we are proud to contribute to their missions. We are also grateful for our members who round up their monthly energy bill to make these donations possible."

Pierce Pepin Cares provides charitable contributions to nonprofit organizations that offer programs and support projects to enhance quality of life within the communities PPCS serves.  Pierce Pepin Cares grants are awarded quarterly by the Pierce Pepin Cares board of directors. All nine PPCS directors serve on the Pierce Pepin Cares board, along with one PPCS member and one employee.  Nonprofit organizations interested in applying may visit www.piercepepin.coop or call 800-924-2133 for information. The next application deadline is Sept. 15. 

Pierce Pepin Cares is the 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services, an energy services cooperative located in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, offering electric utility services to homes and businesses. As a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services is committed to being safe, accountable, innovative, and united and is dedicated to helping its communities live better.  For more information, call 800-924-2133 or visit www.piercepepin.coop.

Submitted by Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services