JCCF receives Duke Energy Foundation grant for mental health resources
Published: August 22, 2022 by Gail Richards, president & CEO
In the wake of a mass shooting at Greenwood Park Mall, the Duke Energy Foundation is contributing a $10,000 grant to the Johnson County Community Foundation to kick-start a sustainable, long-term community program to fund mental health services, support and counseling for local residents.
“Our community providers have seen demand for mental health services skyrocket over the last several years,” said Gail Richards, president and CEO of the Johnson County Community Foundation. “With limited resources, it has become more challenging to meet the many needs of our residents, which have only increased since the tragedy at Greenwood Park Mall. Through the generosity of Duke Energy and other partners, we hope to give providers more tools to help individuals access the care they need and instill a sense of hope in the community.”
Local community leaders and service providers, as well as the city of Greenwood and Johnson County, recognized a need for more community mental health services. With Duke Energy’s support, the Johnson County Community Foundation plans to address unmet needs by establishing a long-term community program to provide grants to support mental health programming and services for Johnson County residents. The program will rely upon the financial contributions of businesses, nonprofit organizations and individuals to fund grants on a recurring, annual cycle.
Those interested in supporting the Johnson County Community Foundation’s long-term community program to fund mental health services can visit jccf.org/health-and-human-services-fund to donate.
“Our hearts continue to be with the Greenwood community and the families of those who lost their lives in this senseless tragedy,” said Jean Renk, government and community relations manager at Duke Energy. “As the community begins to heal, the need to expand access to critical mental health services has never been greater. Duke Energy and the Johnson County Community Foundation are committed to helping organizations reach those who are struggling to ensure they get the help they need.”
More information about the Duke Energy Foundation can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.
