ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Starting today, Duke Energy will be accepting applications from nonprofit organizations working to support veterans in the community to receive funds raised through its 2019 Victories for Veterans program. Through this program, Duke Energy contributes $1,000 for every Rays regular season win to organizations serving veterans. So far this season, the donation total is $50,000.

Duke Energy will collect submissions from 501 (c)(3) agencies to receive a portion of funds raised, up to $15,000 each, until Monday, August 5. Organizations can apply online at duke-energy.com/victoriesforveterans.  

“We are proud to partner with the Tampa Bay Rays to honor local veterans for the fourth consecutive year,” said Duke Energy Florida president Catherine Stempien. “Our previous grants have helped provide vital services, such as mobility, transportation, workforce development and PTSD support initiatives to more than 6,200 veterans throughout the state. Veterans have helped preserve our freedom, and this program is one of the many ways our company helps support those men and women who have served our country.”

This is the fourth consecutive year of the partnership between the Rays and the Duke Energy Foundation. Since 2016, the program has funded $259,700, benefiting 33 recipient organizations throughout Duke Energy’s Florida service territory. 

Selected organizations will be recognized at a Rays home game this September during pregame festivities with an on-field check presentation by Duke Energy and Rays representatives.

About Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The foundation contributes more than $30 million annually in charitable gifts, and is funded by Duke Energy shareholder dollars. More information about the foundation and its Powerful Communities program can be found at duke-energy.com/foundation.

The Tampa Bay Rays mission is to energize the community through the magic of Rays baseball. The organization is committed to building a strong community bond through meaningful interactions and charitable donations, and has proudly represented Major League Baseball since 1998.