Today marks the launch of the third year of Lowe's largest-ever community giveback initiative, Lowe's Hometowns. The five-year, $100 million community impact program makes physical improvements to community spaces and more than 2.5 million people (about twice the population of Hawaii) are anticipated to benefit from the first two years of Lowe's Hometowns projects within one year of project completion.
Across the nation, communities big and small have benefited from funds provided by Lowe's Hometowns grants, and they've felt the support from teams of red vest associates who dedicate their time to help in their community projects. Let's look back at some 2023 projects that show the unifying spirit and the big impact of Lowe's Hometowns grants.
Aid the Silent
San Antonio, TX
Founder of Aid the Silent, Emma Faye, made it her mission at a young age to make a safe and inclusive place for children with deafness to play and gather. With the help of Lowe's Hometowns grant, a brand-new playground with specific equipment designed for deaf children was installed. A team of red vest associates also beautified the campus, and Emma says more than the funds, the number of volunteers who showed up for children at Aid the Silent warmed her heart.
BEFORE
AFTER
Americans for Independent Living
Waterloo, IA
Some recipients of the services provided by Americans for Independent Living credit the organization, whose mission is to aid homeless and low-income veterans, with saving their lives. Which is why it was crucial for AFIL to receive the Lowe's Hometowns grant. With it, the organization created a new community space for veterans of all generations to gather and share stories, resources, and support.
BEFORE
AFTER
Glow Up Girl
Wayne County, NY
Glow Up Girl was an organization only able to provide services offsite until Lowe's Hometowns grant got involved. Now, the non-profit has a storefront that allows girls ages 3 to 12 from all walks of life to gather and understand each other while developing confidence and connection.
AFTER
The Enchanting Book Mobile
Richmond, VA
Sarah Matalavage, Founder of The Enchanting Book Mobile, dreamed of making literacy more accessible to children in underserved communities surrounding Richmond, VA. The funds from Lowe's Hometowns grant made that dream a reality. Now, Sarah can be found chartering the bus through the city and handing out books. The bus has gone on two tours and has already distributed over 200 books.
The magic of seeing a child take their time to select a book they will cherish for years to come is priceless.
BEFORE
AFTER
Anchorage Police Department
Anchorage, AK
Anchorage police officers and dispatchers experience high stress, often working 12 hour shifts at a time. Their goal with the Lowe's Hometowns grant was to create a relaxing break room that would allow those working to take the time needed to rest and recharge before going back to serve the citizens of Anchorage; mission accomplished!
BEFORE
AFTER
Lowe’s is inviting individuals, nonprofits and municipalities across the country to nominate projects for 2024 Lowe’s Hometowns. If you have an organization or idea to make your hometown better for all, please submit it here. The nomination window will be open through February 19, 2024.
