January
27, 2009
At a time when local charities are struggling to meet an increasing need for services, NSTAR employees have stepped up to donate the most money ever pledged to the United Way in the company’s history. NSTAR’s 2008 campaign raised nearly $1.1 million in donations and matching company contributions, exceeding last year’s total which had also set an all-time company record.
“Even in these difficult economic times, our employees dug deep into their pockets to support the United Way,” said Tom May, NSTAR Chairman, President and CEO. "I also want to commend the leadership of our unions, UWUA Local 369 and the Steelworker's Local 12004, for their strong support of the campaign. We all recognize that with the budgets of local charities stretched dangerously thin right now, it’s especially important to help them in their efforts through volunteering and financial contributions.”
“In a time when the community needed them most, the people of NSTAR responded,” said Michael Durkin, President and CEO of United Way of Massachusetts Bay & Merrimack Valley. “Their commitment to community in the most challenging of times is a shining example of the potential we all have to advance the common good.”
NSTAR has a long history of supporting local charities. In addition to its annual United Way campaign, the company sponsors volunteer events throughout the year and encourages employees to lend a hand in their own communities. The NSTAR charitable foundation donates over $1.5 million each year to internationally-known organizations such as Children’s Hospital Boston and to the smaller, community-based groups supported by company employees.
United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley works with schools, communities, government, business leaders and a network of more than 200 health and human service agencies to drive lasting change through strategic investments. These investments are aimed at ensuring children are nurtured and enter school ready to learn; providing youth with adult guidance and positive options for the future; and helping families gain access to safe, permanent homes and the skills and opportunities to build better futures.
NSTAR is the largest Massachusetts-based, investor-owned electric and gas utility. The company transmits and delivers electricity and natural gas to 1.4 million customers in Eastern and Central Massachusetts, including more than one million electric customers in 81 communities and 300,000 gas customers in 51 communities.
