Operation Round-Up First Responder Grants

Through its Operation Round-Up program, SLEMCO offers targeted funding to support first responder organizations operating within its Louisiana service area. Operation Round-Up is a customer-driven initiative where participating utility customers round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the extra change contributing to a fund dedicated to community betterment. The First Responder Grants program is one of the ways these funds are allocated, with a specific focus on ensuring local fire departments and law enforcement agencies can obtain the vital equipment and resources necessary to enhance public safety. The program offers five individual grants of up to $10,000 each, totaling a potential funding pool of $50,000. The funding must be used to support clearly articulated needs that directly benefit public safety operations. Acceptable funding uses include the purchase of equipment such as bulletproof vests, fire-resistant suits, specialized apparatus, and training for law enforcement or firefighting personnel. Projects must be aligned with safety and operational effectiveness for first responders serving within the SLEMCO service region. Eligibility is limited to law enforcement agencies and fire departments that either possess IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit status or have an affiliated nonprofit arm that meets this requirement. The program does not specify additional geographic eligibility restrictions beyond service within the utility’s covered parishes in Louisiana. SLEMCO emphasizes the importance of applicants clearly outlining their project or equipment needs in their submissions to improve competitiveness. Applications must be submitted by April 1 at 4:30 p.m. Central Time. The selection process incorporates community participation: SLEMCO customers will vote online from May 1 through May 22 to determine which applicants receive funding. This community-engagement model empowers local residents to help direct financial support toward first responders they feel are most in need or impactful. Winners of the SLEMCO Operation Round-Up First Responder Grants will be publicly announced on May 26. The program is offered annually in the spring, although no specific recurrence language is provided in the announcement. The primary contact for questions is SLEMCO’s customer service, available by email at [email protected] or phone at 337-896-5384.

Emphasize the safety impact and specificity of the requested equipment.