Avista offering $270K in seasonal support to needy

Avista is supporting regional food banks and community services agencies who serve the needy with more than $270,000 this holiday season, bringing the utility and its foundation’s annual charitable giving to more than $3.2 million.

“At this time of year, it is especially meaningful for us to help support the community organizations and resources that make such a difference in people’s lives,” said Dennis Vermillion, Avista president and CEO, in a statement.

The utility donates a portion of company profits, which aren’t included in customer rates, and also funds community investment through the Avista Foundation, a non-profit organization.

A total of $200,000 is going to 21 community service agencies to create grants for low-income Avista customers who need assistance with energy costs, according to a news release. Forty-six food banks in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Montana and Alaska are receiving $43,000 from Avista, and nearly $28,000 is going to other nonprofits and Avista community partners.