More than $35,000 funds 42 projects in Mississippi communities

Jackson, Miss. – Projects that educate, promote a healthy environment and healthy families, and strengthen the community are getting a financial boost from Entergy Mississippi, Inc.

“A lot of good work is going on in Mississippi communities and there are a lot of strong ideas for projects that improve quality of life,” said Gloria Johnson, director of customer service for Entergy Mississippi, Inc. “So I’m pleased to announce that 42 projects have been selected to receive a 2010 Entergy Mississippi Community Partnership Grant.”

These projects are located throughout the company’s 45-county service area and will share more than $35,000 in grant money.

Entergy Mississippi has funded the grants program for more than two decades. It’s part of the utility’s ongoing commitment to invest in communities it serves. Efforts that promote education and literacy, community improvement and enrichment, healthy families, and arts and culture are awarded grants up to $1,000.

Community organizations use the grants as “seed money” and seek additional funds and volunteers to help with projects.

“Big projects with big budgets tend to get a lot of attention, and they’re important,” said Johnson. “But just as important are these creative, grassroots efforts that with a little help make a big difference in their communities.

“That’s what these projects are about, and that’s the idea behind this grants program—for Entergy to partner with the communities we serve to improve our schools, grow and expand our businesses and build a better future.”

A panel of experts in education and community service chose the winning programs. Judges carefully considered the applicants’ approach, objectives, benefits and participation.

“There are a lot of worthy programs and many deserving groups in our service area,” said Liz Brister, manager of external affairs for Entergy Mississippi, Inc. “It makes the selection process very challenging.”

The Community Partnership Grants program is part of Entergy Mississippi’s continuing tradition of providing support through economic and community development activities and contributions. Details on how to apply for next year’s grants will be announced later.

Entergy Mississippi, Inc. provides electricity to more than 435,000 customers in 45 counties. It is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy Corporation is an integrated energy company engaged primarily in electric power production and retail distribution operations. Entergy owns and operates power plants with approximately 30,000 megawatts of electric generating capacity, and it is the second-largest nuclear generator in the United States. Entergy delivers electricity to 2.7 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

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