Friends of the Cape Girardeau Public Library Foundation receive $2K grant

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – The Friends of the Cape Girardeau Public Library Foundation was selected as a recipient of a $2,000 grant from AmerenCares.

This grant will be used to further enhance and expand the library’s community programs, providing valuable resources and services to patrons.

Ameren announced it awarded $200,000 in grants to 100 public libraries throughout its Missouri and Illinois service territory as part of Ameren’s Love Your Library program.

The libraries that were awarded funds were chosen based on nominations from Ameren co-workers.

“Part of our AmerenCares mission is to advance institutions, such as public libraries, that create thriving communities,” said Gwen Mizell, senior vice president, chief sustainability, diversity & philanthropy office at
Ameren. “From educational workshops to internet access to toddler storytimes to a cool place to gather on the hottest days, libraries play a valuable role in connecting the community and opening pathways to opportunity.”

Beyond books, these libraries also provide free summer programming, internet access, job resources and other services directly impacting their communities.

Public libraries also tackle economic divides and level the playing field, particularly in rural and underserved communities, so people of every age, income level, location, ethnicity and physical ability can access the resources they need to learn.

They also serve as a critical stop gap by providing a number of essential services for free:

• Student support services, such as tutoring and printing access.
• Book delivery to homebound seniors.
• Technology, internet access and computer classes.
• Job search resources.
• English as a second language programs.
• Shelter for those displaced during severe weather

The Friends of the Cape Girardeau Public Library Foundation thanked AmerenCares for the generosity and commitment to community development. They look forward to using the grant to its fullest potential, creating a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.

“We are incredibly grateful to AmerenCares for their support and belief in our mission to serve the community,” said Friends of the Cape Girardeau Public Library Foundation Board President Mary McClary. “This grant will
enable us to strengthen existing library programs and introduce new initiatives that address the diverse needs of our residents.”

The Ameren Corporation Charitable Trust was established in 1944 to serve as a principal source of the company’s philanthropic investments in community projects and programs. Allocations from the Trust’s AmerenCares
program come entirely from corporate earnings.

Visit capelibrary.org/about/friends for more information about the Friends of the Cape Girardeau Public Library Foundation and how it supports the library’s mission.