The Southern Pioneer Electric Helping Us Give To Society (H.U.G.S.) team presented two Liberal High School groups with grants to assist in elevating their respective programs. The Liberal High School Cheer team and Liberal High School Concessions stands received a $2,000 grant each.
Liberal High School Cheer Team
The LHS Cheer team’s H.U.G.S. grant will be used to purchase new cheer mats for the team. Ashley Oropeza, head cheer coach, says the mat will help keep athletes safe when practicing.
“This project addresses a clear need for regulation-quality mats,” said Oropeza. “The mats will not only improve safety but also performance and growth for our team.
“When we are looking at applications for grants, we look to see if they fall into specific focus areas that are listed in the program guidelines,” said Ruby Terrazas, H.U.G.S. team member. “This one’s checked several of the boxes, and we’re proud to present this grant to the cheer team.”
Liberal High School Concessions Stand
The concession stand’s grant will fund a new popcorn machine and a pretzel warmer. Holly McCarter, LHS Concessions Stand Manager, says the new machines are vital to the concessions stand’s future success.
“The LHS Concession stands play an important role in our community,” said McCarter, “They provide a means for clubs and organizations to fundraise and enhance the overall experience at our events.”
“Purchasing these machines will be a great benefit to the clubs and organizations that utilize the concessions stands,” said Ruby Terrazas, H.U.G.S. team member. “H.U.G.S. is honored to play a role in helping such an important part of the Liberal community grow and improve.”
H.U.G.S. Program
H.U.G.S. grants are available for community projects within Southern Pioneer Electric’s service territory that meet the criteria outlined in the grant application. Eligible projects must fall within one of the following categories: Human Needs, Education, Culture and Art, Civic or Environment.
Organizations that wish to apply must be a 501 (c)(3) non-profit entity and reside within Southern Pioneer Electric’s service territory. Government-controlled entities (schools, libraries, EMS, etc.) and faith-based organizations are all eligible to apply.