Meadow Springs Renewable Energy awarded a total of $8,500 in community grants during the first quarter of 2026, supporting three local organizations in White County.

The funding was awarded to Norris City-Omaha-Enfield Future Farmers of America (NCOE FFA), We Love White County, and the White County 4-H Support Committee, which expanded access to education, food security, and youth programming across the county.

NCOE FFA will use its grant to provide students with experiential learning through the construction of a concession stand and restroom next to the high school baseball fields. The initiative is designed to give students practical construction experience while addressing a longstanding need for accessible restrooms for community members attending local sporting and recreational events.

“This grant allows our students to gain real-world skills while working on a project that will benefit the entire community,” said Kory Sutton, Representative of NCOE FFA. “Access to basic facilities has been an ongoing challenge at our athletic fields, and this project is a thoughtful solution.”

We Love White County will direct its funding to its food distribution ministry, which provides over a week’s worth of groceries to about 100 families each month.

“This funding helps us put food on the table for families who rely on this program each month,” said Cooper Thompson, Executive Director of We Love White County. “It ensures we can consistently provide groceries to those facing food insecurity in our community.”

The White County 4-H Support Committee will use its grant to reduce the barriers to participation in its Extension and 4-H programming as interest continues to grow, particularly in Special Interest (SPIN) Clubs.

“As our programs continue to grow, it’s important that we keep them accessible to all young people in the community, regardless of their background,” said Amy McCarty, Youth Development Program Coordinator for the White County 4-H Support Committee.

Meadow Springs Renewable Energy is a 150-megawatt solar and battery storage project designed to deliver American-made, reliable electricity to Illinois’ grid while bolstering local economic development.

The project team continues to engage with local stakeholders to better understand community priorities and identify future investment opportunities. Meadow Springs Renewable Energy is now accepting applications for its second-quarter 2026 grant cycle. Nonprofits serving White County are encouraged to apply at meadowspringsrenewableenergy.com.