ELLSWORTH — Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) is pleased to announce the recipients of its Pierce Pepin Cares grants for the third quarter of 2026, awarding a total of $4,300 to four local organizations making a meaningful difference across the region.

Funded through Operation Round Up®, Pierce Pepin Cares reflects the generosity of PPCS members who voluntarily round up their monthly energy bills. Those small contributions come together to create a big impact—supporting organizations that strengthen and serve local communities.

• Cooperative Family Fund received $800 to strengthen bonds of cooperative families by helping cooperative employees and their children with grief and the loss of a loved one. Donations will be set aside in the hope that each child will be able to access a total of $10,000 at age 18.
• Bridge to Hope was awarded $500 toward supporting direct advocacy services, community outreach, prevention education, and resource navigation for Pepin County residents. This can include crisis intervention, legal advocacy, and housing resource referrals for survivors.
• Staying Put, Inc. received $1,000 toward filling the gaps in necessary transportation and activities that support elderly and disabled clients in Spring Valley and Elmwood areas, while allowing them to maintain their independence.
• Ellsworth Police Department was granted $2,000 to fund the purchase of 40 “Stop the Bleed” kits for each school to provide additional safety to the Ellsworth School District. Any remaining funding would go towards the purchase of extra kits for the district.

“We are proud to support these organizations and the meaningful work they do to serve our community,” said Nate Boettcher, president and CEO of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services. “Their dedication makes a lasting impact, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their missions. We also sincerely thank our members whose participation in rounding up their monthly energy bills helps make this funding possible.”

Pierce Pepin Cares provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that enhance quality of life throughout the areas served by PPCS. Grants are awarded quarterly by the Pierce Pepin Cares Board of Directors, which includes all nine PPCS directors, one member, and one employee representative.

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for future funding opportunities can learn more at www.piercepepin.coop or by calling 800-924-2133. The next application deadline is Sept. 15.

Submitted by Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services