Grant applications are pouring in, as individuals and organizations petition the Foundation for assistance.

At press time, more than 20 applications had been filed and more are expected to come as word spreads throughout our service territory.

"Seeing the tremendous response lets us know that Operation Round Up will help Jackson EMC members come to the aid of their neighbors in ways we as individuals would find difficult to do," says Randall Pugh, Jackson EMC president/CEO. "Out of more than 188,000 meters, only 9,255 have opted out of the program. That is a testament to the cooperative spirit at work." The first round of grants is expected to be awarded by the end of the year.

If you'd like to apply for a grant, go to www.jacksonemc.com/roundup. Be sure to review the grant guidelines, and download your application. Applications are also available by mail and in Jackson EMC offices. For more information, call 706-367-6295

How will Operation Round Up funds be used?

The primary purpose of Operation Round Up is to address charitable needs and provide financial assistance anywhere in the 10 counties served by Jackson EMC. One hundred percent of contributions go toward improving the lives of others, and the funds will not be used for political purposes or electric bills.

The Jackson EMC Foundation was created to disperse the money collected by Operation Round Up.

Requests for assistance will be evaluated and grants awarded by a separate board of directors, made of volunteer members from Jackson EMC counties.

For more information, go to www.jacksonemc.com/roundup. If you'd like to send comments or if you choose not to participate in ORU, you can complete an online form.