Richland, Wash.– Thanks to the generosity of Energy Northwest employees, 374 Tri-Cities area children will receive both toys and needed clothing items this holiday season.
For 41 years, EN has partnered with the Benton Franklin Head Start program to provide gifts for program participants. Head Start focuses on early child education and kindergarten readiness for income-eligible children and families.
“It is an absolute privilege to participate in this program each year with Head Start," said CEO Bob Schuetz. In past years, Schuetz played the role of Santa Claus for area classroom parties. “The smile on the faces of these kids is just priceless.
This is really what the season is all about – making a difference for people in our community. It is a core part of who we are as Energy Northwest."
Because of ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Santa was unable to make classroom visits again this year. He did provide a special video greeting from the North Pole, with appearances from Mrs. Claus and 1 of his workshop elves.
The Head Start children who are sponsored by EN employees receive gifts of toys, as well as warm clothing.
A committee of employees manages the distribution of wish lists and collects, labels, and delivers gifts to classrooms. Kristine Darling, a specialist in Construction and Projects Management, served as chair this year.
“Helping children, especially those in the Head Start program each year is such a joy. To know that I am part of bringing a smile to a child on Christmas morning is fulfilling and makes me grateful to work for a company that helps our community," Darling said.
About Energy Northwest
Energy Northwest develops, owns, and operates a diverse mix of electricity-generating resources, including hydro, solar, battery storage, and wind projects – and the Northwest's only nuclear power facility. These projects provide carbon-free electricity at the cost of generation – enough clean, cost-effective, and reliable energy to power more than a million homes each year. As an independent joint operating agency of Washington State, Energy Northwest comprises 27 public power member utilities from across the state serving more than 1,500,000 customers. The agency continually explores new generation projects to meet its members' needs.
Kelly Rae, Public Affairs, (509) 372-5376