In honor of National Preparedness Month, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is doubling down on our commitment to regional emergency preparedness by awarding nearly $1 million in safety grants to local nonprofit organizations. Through our 2024 Safety Grant Program, we’ve distributed $943,000 to 45 nonprofits across SDG&E’s service territory. These grants support critical emergency preparedness and safety services, boosting community resilience and helping protect our community from potential disasters.

SDG&E's efforts during National Preparedness Month are especially timely, reflecting a longstanding commitment to enhancing public safety. By teaming up with nonprofits that provide disaster response, emergency preparedness, child safety education, senior care, and more, SDG&E plays a vital role in preparing the community for emergencies.

Supporting Nonprofits: A Crucial Investment in Community Safety

As one of the largest philanthropic organizations in San Diego, SDG&E is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the communities we serve. SDG&E’s Safety Grant Program recognizes nonprofits' critical role in creating a safer, more resilient community. By providing these organizations with much needed resources, SDG&E helps ensure that essential safety services are accessible to all, especially the most vulnerable populations. 

“Supporting nonprofits and their mission is vital for our community’s prosperity; it’s about investing in the future of our community,” said Kazeem Omidiji, SDG&E’s director of community relations. “These organizations are the backbone of our safety network. They are the ones who step up in times of need, providing essential services that protect and uplift our residents. We are honored to partner with them in making San Diego a safer place for everyone.” 

Empowering Local Organizations: A Diverse Range of Impact

Among the grant recipients is the San Diego Fire-Rescue Foundation (SDFRF), which will use the funds to expand community outreach programs and provide resources to local fire stations. 

“I like to tell people we buy capes for the heroes and, although they don’t wear actual capes, with the help of our community partners and donors, we’re able to provide enhanced resources,” said Wendy Robinson, executive director of the SDFRF. 

Another grant beneficiary described donor support as vital to their organization. “Funding from partners like SDG&E allows us to continue our media alert communications system, which is how we communicate with our staff, volunteers, and donors during an emergency, said Claudine Van Gonka, director of community relations and media for San Diego Blood Bank. “We’re responsible for distributing blood products to dozens of hospitals, so our staff must be aware of emergencies that could negatively impact our ability to provide blood to those hospitals and patients.” 

For decades, SDG&E has been a cornerstone of philanthropy in San Diego, contributing millions of dollars to local organizations and initiatives that strengthen the community. The Safety Grant Program is just one example of how SDG&E is committed to creating a safer, more resilient region.

“We believe that when our community is safe, it thrives,” added Omidiji. “Our commitment to supporting nonprofits is a testament to our belief in the power of collaboration and community. By working together, we can achieve so much more than we could alone.” 

As SDG&E looks to the future, it remains laser-focused on its mission to enhance community safety through strategic investments, collaboration, and ongoing support for the nonprofits that make San Diego a better place to live. For more information about SDG&E’s Safety Grant Program or to learn how your organization can get involved, please visit www.sdge.com/community.