ALDER CREEK, NY – February 22, 2022 – Six community groups from across Oneida County have been named the latest recipients of grants from the Alder Creek Solar Community Grant Program.
The program, funded by Apex Clean Energy, supports community organizations making a difference in the following focus areas: Building Healthy Communities, Economic Development, Environmental Sustainability, and Promoting Education.
“We remain excited about the development progress on the Alder Creek Solar Project and are humbled by the opportunity to work with local organizations through our grant program," said David Holly, Development Manager with Apex Clean Energy. "Congratulations to the recent grant recipients and we wish you the best in your work to serve and strengthen your communities.”
Boonville Search and Rescue will be receiving a grant towards the purchase of cross-country skiing equipment for residents and visitors to utilize and to be able to enjoy the winter activities that are offered throughout Oneida County. “For over 30 years, Boonville Search and Rescue has offered Cross Country Skiing opportunities for the community to enjoy. This grant will help us continue our program with some new sets of skis. We want to thank Alder Creek Solar for partnering with us,” said Michelle Bartelotte of Boonville Search and Rescue.
The Boonville Fair Association will receive grant funds to help upgrade and supply the newly renovated EMT building at the fairgrounds. “The Boonville Fair Association would like to thank Alder Creek Solar for choosing our grant application for 2022," said Boonville Fair Association Treasurer Susan Alger. "The funding will be utilized to assist in completing some interior work on our new First Aid Building. Our new First Aid Building will be a great asset to the fairgrounds once it is fully completed. Thank you again!"
The Erwin Library and Institute will receive a grant to help purchase new storm windows and make their building more energy efficient, reducing heating costs. Vincent Fitch, President of the library's Board of Directors, expressed appreciation for the grant, saying “Erwin Library is very grateful for this financial support from the Alder Creek Solar Community Grant program. It will help us improve the building to make it a more comfortable and energy efficient structure.”
Alder Creek Solar also partnered with the Boonville Area Chamber of Commerce to support the veterans' relief fund of VFW Pot 5558. The relief fund provides assistance to veterans in need, helping to cover the cost of food, utilities, rent, clothing, and medical care, among other needs.
"Thank you to Alder Creek Solar or joining us in supporting Boonville area veterans who have sacrificed so much to serve our country. These funds will make a great difference in the lives of veterans and their families throughout our community," said Boonville Chamber Secretary Cheryl McMenama.
Other grant recipients included Wholesome Living to support a new Community Wellness Center in Forestport and the Penn Mountain Snow Riders for new signage along area snowmobile trails.
The Alder Creek Solar community grant program will continue to support local organizations working to make a difference in their communities. To learn more or apply for a future grant, visit www.aldercreeksolar.com/grant.