When the Appalachian Power Foundation provided funding to Comfort Cases, John Amos Power Plant employees turned that support into a hands-on act of care for children entering foster care.
During a recent packing party at the plant, employees, family members and contractors volunteered their time to assemble 185 backpacks filled with comfort and personal care items for children who are entering or moving through the foster care system. The backpacks are designed to give children something of their own and help ensure their belongings are carried respectfully, rather than in trash bags.
The event brought together volunteers from across the plant using part of their lunch break to help pack the backpacks. Volunteers moved through assembly lines, adding essentials and comfort items such as toiletries, pajamas, blankets, books and stuffed animals before the completed backpacks were prepared for distribution to children in need.
For event organizer Cassie Escue, administrative supervisor at John Amos, the response from employees was meaningful.
“It was truly inspiring to see so many people come together for children who are facing such a difficult transition,” Escue said. “Our employees showed up with enthusiasm, compassion and teamwork, and by the end of the event we had packed 185 backpacks. The energy around the plant afterward was incredible, and employees are already asking if we can make this an annual tradition.”
Comfort Cases is a nonprofit organization that provides backpacks and larger bags filled with new, age-appropriate items to children entering foster care. The organization’s mission is centered on replacing trash bags with dignity, hope and comfort for children during a stressful and uncertain time.
Sammy Gray, director of government affairs, said the Appalachian Power Foundation’s support for Comfort Cases reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves.
“Comfort Cases is doing deeply important work for some of the most vulnerable children in those communities,” Gray said. “This grant helps provide more than essential items. It gives children a sense of dignity, care and hope at a time when they need it most. Seeing Amos employees embrace this opportunity so fully shows the heart of our company and the difference we can make together.”
About the Appalachian Power Foundation
The Appalachian Power Foundation awards charitable grants within communities served by Appalachian Power Company (APCo), an operating subsidiary of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), supporting housing, education, access to essential services, resilience and recovery, and thriving communities. The Appalachian Power Foundation, along with the rest of the American Electric Power Foundation, is funded by AEP and its operating subsidiaries solely through shareholder dollars.