YAKIMA, Wash. — The PacifiCorp Foundation for Learning donated $15,000 to local programs that help strengthen families and give the less fortunate tools to succeed. The Foundation is the charitable arm of Pacific Power.

Catholic Family & Child Service received $5,000 for its Kinship Navigator Program. “Hundreds of children are being cared for by their next of kin in Yakima County,” said Darlene Darnell, Catholic Family Child Service director. “These children’s birth parents are unable to care for them due to substance abuse, neglect, mental illness or other situations. We provide resources to families who need assistance when they unexpectedly need to care for these kids. These needs include clothing, transportation, bedding, school supplies – whatever helps during a rough time.”

Yakima County Coalition for the Homeless was awarded $5,000 for its Bienestar Transitional Housing project in Sunnyside. “We’re very grateful for the PacifiCorp Foundation’s grant because it will assist us in developing new programs,” said LuPita Gutierrez-Parker, executive director of the Yakima County Coalition for the Homeless. “We’re looking to start a computer lab to help provide employment opportunities for clients.”

YMCA of Yakima’s ASPIRE youth mentoring program received a $5,000 grant. ASPIRE (Adult-Student Program to Inspire, Relate and Enrich) matches adult mentors with at-risk students. “Programs such as ASPIRE are the real heart of the YMCA, and thoroughly depend on organizations such as Pacific Power for support,” said Thomas J. Oliva, Yakima Family YMCA ASPIRE coordinator. “We have more than 50 mentors matched up with children who would otherwise not have this opportunity. It is just the tip of the iceberg, but we believe we can continue to grow.”

“These funds are going toward outstanding programs run by people who are working to improve the lives of our fellow citizens,” said Clark Satre, regional community manager for Pacific Power. “We believe we have a stake in the communities we serve, and this is one way Pacific Power can help.”

About the PacifiCorp Foundation for Learning

The PacifiCorp Foundation for Learning was created and incorporated as a corporate foundation in 1988, and serves as the major channel of philanthropy for PacifiCorp, Pacific Power, Utah Power and Rocky Mountain Power. To apply for a grant, and to review specific eligibility requirements, please go to www.pacificorpfoundation.org .

Media inquiries: newsdesk@pacificorp.com