LAWRENCE, Kan. – July 1, 2020 – Black Hills Energy is much more than an energy company. The company believes in investing in local economies, helping families in need, and supporting the communities our employees work and live in.
In 2019, the direct economic impact of Black Hills Energy in Kansas totaled $50 million. This included charitable giving, payments to suppliers, property, sales and use taxes paid to communities and compensation for employees.
As part of this, charitable impact topped nearly $500,000, including financial support for nonprofits, economic development, low-income energy assistance, investments in trees, and support for United Way – all making a positive impact in the hometowns of employees and customers in Kansas.
Giving back is more than just writing checks.
Black Hills Energy also supported Kansas communities in 2019 in other ways, including:
- 170 iPads and phones were donated to keep Kansas nonprofits connected.
- Nearly every employee in Kansas volunteered to share their energy by helping a total of 75 organizations across the state.
- More than 60 first responders learned emergency response techniques around natural gas lines.
- Worthy local organizations and nonprofits across Kansas received more than $150,000 in charitable giving.
- The energy assistance program, Black Hills Cares, distributed $138,000 to help nearly 300 families.
“At Black Hills Energy we believe strong communities help make for strong companies. If our communities are not strong, we won’t be either,”
“At Black Hills Energy we believe strong communities help make for strong companies. If our communities are not strong, we won’t be either,” said Jerry Watkins, general manager for Black Hills Energy in Kansas. “Our hearts go out to all those impacted by COVID-19, whether physically or economically. In addition to our community impact initiatives, and as the pandemic became a reality in our hometowns this spring, we partnered with our communities to help fill basic needs by designating $375,000 for immediate relief efforts across the country. We also purchased and distributed locally made face coverings and hand sanitizer. We continue to stand ready to partner with our communities as they emerge from the impact of coronavirus.”
Learn more about all the ways Black Hills Energy is supporting communities.