LIGHTNING, TAMPA ELECTRIC TO SUPPORT LOCAL VETS THROUGH THE SHARE PROGRAM
The Tampa Bay Lightning, along with their partners at Tampa Electric, announced today that they are partnering to cover the utility bills for local veterans during the month of July through the Share Program.
The Lightning and TECO will be supporting 31 veterans, one for each day of the month, in the Tampa Bay community by funding their monthly utility bills. One veteran will be selected each day during the month of July. Potential recipients are being identified with assistance from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and Tampa Crossroads, a local charity.
“We are excited to continue our community outreach with our friends and partners at TECO to support those in need throughout Tampa Bay,” said Elizabeth Frazier, Sr. Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Initiatives and Executive Director of the Lightning Foundation. “Last year we were proud to partner and support 91 residents who were impacted by the pandemic and were in need of financial assistance to pay their utility bills; this year, with the launch of the program occurring this 4th of July weekend, we are honored to continue the program with a focus on supporting Veterans throughout the month of July. Our veterans do so much to protect our freedom every day, and it is our honor to support them as a thank you for their service.”
The “Share with our Veterans” program is a continuation of the Lightning and TECO’s community outreach initiative launched last summer to support the Tampa Bay community through the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, the program covered the energy bills for over 91 eligible customers across nine counties, including Hillsborough, Orange and Pinellas.
“We are proud to join forces with the Lightning to give back to local veterans in such a powerful way, through the Share program,” said Archie Collins, president and chief executive officer of Tampa Electric. “We’re also grateful to Tampa Crossroads and to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for connecting us with the veterans who need the most help.”
Since January 2021, TECO has matched all donations, which has been $70,381.03 through May, for a total of $140,762.06. For details click here.
About the TECO Share Program:
TECO’s Share Program, in partnership with Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army, helps customers in need pay their utility bill, especially during these difficult times. TECO will match dollar for dollar contributions up to $500,000. Every dollar goes directly to help a neighbor in need. No portion of the contribution is used for fundraising or administrative costs. To find out how you can help support those who need it most, please visit www.tampaelectric.com/Share.
You may also be interested in this story about Drive Electric Tampa Bay here. Look at the Grand Opening of the Local Vets art center here.