Alburgh playground and Sheffield pantry receive new grants

The Alburgh Family Clubhouse will install two new sandboxes this month, funded by a $1,000 grant from the Vermont Electric Co-op’s Community Fund. The club provides care and early education for 62 children, ranging from infants to school-age, along the shores of Lake Champlain.

Gina Lewis, president of the Alburgh Family Clubhouse, said the new equipment supports developmental skills and encourages interactive play. The grant covers the final costs for the playground project.

Across the co-op’s service territory, the Sheffield Food Pantry also received a $1,000 award. John T. Gayton, secretary and treasurer of the pantry, stated the money will buy a refrigeration unit and other storage equipment. This upgrade allows the pantry to keep perishable food safe for longer periods.

The Vermont Electric Co-op established the Community Fund to support non-profits in its region. Since the first donation in 2015, the fund has issued more than 300 grants. Each grant is capped at $1,000, with total awards exceeding $200,000. About 2,500 co-op members support the fund by rounding up their electric bills, donating member capital, or making one-time gifts. These funds are separate from electricity sales revenue.

Other organizations receiving grants in this round include Amy’s Armoire, which will rent temporary space for foster children’s furniture. Champlain Islands Developing Essential Services will use funds for meals for people in need. Hard’Ack will support its recreational facility serving the St. Albans area. The Hinesburg Community School will purchase a 3D printer. Johnson Haunted Forest will fund its Halloween event. The Kelly Brush Foundation will support adaptive mountain biking for people with disabilities. NEK Human Services will expand an indoor garden program for people with developmental challenges.

The Northeast Organic Farming Association will offer free or lower-cost admission to its annual conference. RAMP-Town of Westmore will match a Vtrans grant to improve safety on Route 5A. The Sheldon United Methodist Church Food Pantry will buy staples for holiday boxes. Sk8Park and Bike Track will install a new feature at the Johnson skate park. The Vermont Farm Show will support its Agricultural Exhibition scheduled for this spring.