Mississippi Power Company Gives $27,500 to Cool Neighbors

When temperatures climb into the 90s day after day, staying cool isn't just about comfort. It's about safety, especially for families struggling to afford air conditioning or facing sky-high summer electric bills.

Entergy Mississippi is partnering with local community groups across the state to make sure no neighbor gets left in the heat. The power company recently awarded $27,500 in Beat the Heat grants to organizations distributing fans, water, and cooling supplies to people who need them most.

So far this summer, groups like Boss Lady Economic Planning & Development, AJFC Community Action, and New Horizon Ministries have already handed out more than 250 fans to families in Bolivar, Claiborne, and Hinds counties. Entergy volunteers showed up at distribution events to help their neighbors directly.

Bill Washington manages the food pantry at New Horizon Church. He says Entergy employees arrive with open hearts, helping distribute not just fans but food boxes, baby essentials, clothing, and hydration supplies during the hottest days of summer.

The company also just released an additional $141,964 for its Power to Care program, which helps older adults and people with disabilities pay their energy bills during emergencies. Last year alone, that program helped more than 2,500 Mississippi customers keep their lights on, distributing over $605,000 in assistance.

The Ripple Effect

When a power company invests in keeping neighbors cool, it creates waves of change beyond just lowering temperatures. Families avoid heat-related illness and emergency room visits. Seniors living on fixed incomes get relief from impossible choices between medication and electricity. Community organizations gain resources to serve more people, building trust and connection in neighborhoods that need it most.

The grants fund more than fans. They fund dignity, safety, and the message that no one should suffer alone when the mercury rises.

Additional grants went to Southwest Mississippi Opportunity, Inc. and Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi, with more cooling events planned throughout the summer. Customers can check their local nonprofit's social media for upcoming distribution dates.

Entergy Mississippi serves 459,000 customers across 45 counties, and they're making it clear that keeping people safe matters more than just keeping the power running.