PP&L, Inc. presented a $30,000 grant to the Redevelopment Authority of the city of Pittston on Monday (10/20) for a housing rehabilitation program that provides assistance to income-eligible homeowners for minor home repairs and weatherization.

The grant comes from PP&L's Community Partnership Program, which makes funds available to agencies and nonprofit organizations for initiatives that revitalize neighborhoods, create housing opportunities and help small businesses start and grow.

Over the past three years, PP&L has awarded $8.4 million to more than 200 community development initiatives. None of those grant dollars are included in the price PP&L customers pay for electric service.

PP&L's grant will help to fund a city housing rehabilitation program that also is funded through state and federal dollars. Funds are only provided to homeowners who meet certain income limits and occupy their homes.

"PP&L's contribution will help needy homeowners to make essential repairs to their homes," said Pittston Mayor Thomas Walsh. "We are very grateful to PP&L for the company's help with this vital city housing program."

This is the second year that PP&L has provided funds to Pittston's housing rehabilitation program. Last year, PP&L awarded $25,000 to the redevelopment authority, which was used to rehabilitate 10 homes.

"The housing rehabilitation program makes a difference in the community, and PP&L is proud to be part of it," said Florence McNelis, PP&L customer programs director for northeastern Pennsylvania. "Our business strength is linked directly to the economic and social vitality of the communities we serve."

An independent evaluation of PP&L's program by a social research organization found that each Community Partnership Program grant dollar spent produces more than 20 times that amount in economic and social benefits.