Extra change from customers of a local power company has raised significant funds for charities in Forsyth County and surrounding areas.
Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation recently donated more than $22,000 to seven nonprofits in the area as part of its Operation Round Up program.
The donations come from a program allowing customers to round their bill up to the next highest dollar on their electric bills from Sawnee EMC. The average donation is about $6 annually, and more than $2.3 million has been raised since the program began in 2003.
The funds will go to Fill Ministries, FOCUS and Fragile Kids, Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together and American Legion Auxiliary Post 301 in Forsyth County.
The St. Vincent de Paul Society in Dawson County, Lumpkin Literacy in Dahlonega and North Metro Miracle League in north Fulton will also receive funds.
All charities are in Sawnee EMC’s coverage area.