Duke Energy Florida awards $50,000 to A Gift For Teaching

Duke Energy Florida recently awarded $50,000 to A Gift For Teaching in order to supply more students and teachers with classroom necessities. 

A Gift For Teaching, a non-profit and Central Florida’s primary provider of free school supplies to teachers, serves high-need public schools of Orange and Osceola counties. 

Since 1998, AGFT has distributed more than $148 million worth of classroom resources, according to its website, that "empower teachers to inspire future leaders" – including pencils, books, backpacks, clothing and hygiene items.

“The generosity of Duke Energy Florida will allow us to continue to meet the emerging needs of our area’s teachers and students during what continues to be a challenging time for all,” said Jane Thompson, president of AGFT.

According to Duke Energy, the donation is part of its 2021 season of giving efforts, where $250,000 was awarded to 20 Florida-based organizations, that support education and community assistance initiatives. 

The funds will help to expand the organization’s ability to reach more public school classrooms by providing additional educational resources.

Local teachers will be able to “shop” for free school supplies through the organization’s various distribution methods, including Pencil Boy Express – The Mobile Free Store. 

Duke Energy Florida state president Melissa Seixas said the company is a long-time supporter of the educational organizations that empower students and teachers in the communities it serves. 

“By supplying teachers with the basic resources that often come as an extra expense, A Gift For Teaching is ensuring that all students, educators and classrooms are provided the tools and experiences necessary to succeed, and we are proud to support them in their mission," Seixas said. 

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