COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Duke Energy Foundation announced a $500,000 grant program on Wednesday to support first responders in South Carolina.
Local nonprofits and government agencies can apply for grants up to $20,000 that will assist with natural disaster recovery and planning operations.
Eligible projects include:
- Equipment upgrades
- Communication tools
- Specialized training
- Planning initiatives
- Severe weather kits
- Preparedness activities for low-income communities
The grants are part of the foundation’s 2025 Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) program that ultimately works to expand severe weather emergency preparedness statewide.
“This year’s HERO grants are designed to help fill gaps identified when responding to historic storms like Helene and will provide tools and training to our fellow first responders to handle whatever Mother Nature throws our way in the future,” Tim Pearson, Duke Energy’s South Carolina president said in a statement.
This year marks the fourth year of the program which brings the total support to two million dollars.
Earlier this month, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a State of Emergency following the outbreak of more than 175 wildfires and an unusual strain on first responders.
“Last year’s grant from Duke Energy Foundation helped purchase new protective gear for cutting trees and performing extrications,” Mac McMakin, chief of the Travelers Rest Fire Department said. “This gear made it easier for our responders to work efficiently and safely during recent storms and the brush fires that have impacted our area.”
Applications are open through April 25.
