Kentucky Power employees came together this holiday season to give back to their communities, ensuring the spirit of Christmas reached families in need. In a coordinated effort with area programs, employees across Kentucky Power’s service area provided Christmas gifts for dozens of children, spreading cheer and hope during a time of year when giving means everything.
In Hazard, employees led Operation Christmas Child to provide gifts to 61 students in Viper, Buckhorn and Robinson elementary schools. The employees' commitment to supporting local families continues to grow each year. They focus on different schools annually, ensuring that the tradition continues while also expanding its impact.
“I feel as though this has been a blessing for all of us,” Tracy Neace, scheduling assistant, shared about her participation in the project. “We are very fortunate and being able to provide for these children—knowing that on Christmas morning they are going to receive these wonderful gifts—gives you the true meaning of Christmas.”
In the Whitesburg area, Kentucky Power employees participated in the Letcher County Tree of Hope program, working with family resource youth services coordinators to identify children and their siblings in need of extra support this Christmas. Gifts were delivered to help brighten holiday mornings for families throughout Letcher County, highlighting the company’s ongoing dedication to the communities it serves.
Employees from the Ashland Service Center rallied around the CAReS Giving Tree program, purchasing not only essentials like clothing, but also a toy for each child.
“Knowing that our efforts bring joy and holiday spirit to children in need during the holidays reminds us why giving back is so important,” said Breanna McCoy, distribution work scheduling supervisor. “We are blessed to participate in this program each year and spread holiday cheer by purchasing toys, clothes, coats and shoes for children to unwrap and enjoy.”
Meanwhile, employees at the State Office got creative with their holiday giving by putting a unique twist on Secret Santa—a kind of “Guess Who” gift game. This fun approach, introduced by Jennifer Young, principal budget analyst, culminated in the donation of toys to a local charity.
“This was a great way to celebrate as a team and welcome the new groups joining us after the recent reorganizations,” said Young. “We all had fun guessing and sharing laughter as hints were provided.”
The employees donated the toys to children in need through the Greenup County Sheriff’s Toy Drive, which Young said was chosen to broaden the geographical reach of charitable efforts and to bring joy to more children this season.
“Volunteering to help others during the holidays has long been a hallmark of Kentucky Power employees,” Cindy Wiseman, president and chief operation officer. “Through these efforts, dozens of children in communities across our service area will have a brighter and more joyful holiday season. I’m proud of the strong commitment our employees have to support and help others.”