MOORESVILLE – Lowe’s will invest $100 million across five years through a new community impact program launched today.
The program, which will be called Lowe’s Hometowns, will deploy the funds to complete nearly 1,800 projects in communities served by the company through 2026, according to a statement.
100 of those projects will be selected from consumer nominations, the company announced. It is said that this new program builds on the success of a 2021 project known as 100 Hometowns, launched to honor the centennial anniversary of the publicly-traded company.
“Each day, our associates and neighbors come together to help build and strengthen their communities. With this investment through Lowe’s Hometowns, we are demonstrating our commitment to make homes – and hometowns – better for those in need,” said Marvin R. Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO, in the statement. “We look forward to working with communities across the country to make sure that our investments serve their needs and have a positive impact that lasts for years to come.”
The company earned top marks in a recent equality index, along with other North Carolina headquartered firms.
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The new program
“The effort begins with the launch of a new annual initiative that invites people nationwide to visit Lowes.com/hometowns now through March 28 to nominate a deserving project in their hometowns,” the statement reads.
According to the company, its program “comes at a critical time as communities and local organizations across America work hard to navigate the impact of the pandemic, with three-quarters of nonprofits reporting an increase in demand for services since the start of the pandemic.”
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Partnering with Bobby Berk
The company will partner with designer, author, and Emmy-nominated host Bobby Berk, it said. Berk, who will serve as Lowe’s Hometowns Ambassador, will personally design one of the selected, nominated, 100 projects.
According to the company, Berk also submitted a nomination.
“As I travel across the country, I’ve seen how now, more than ever, communities need our help,” said Berk. “Whether it is a safe space for kids to play after school or a training center to help job seekers get back on their feet, the projects we’re taking on with Lowe’s Hometowns will have real meaning for those in need.”
According to the company, eligible project types include neighborhood housing, skilled trades education facilities, community centers, and outdoor spaces. Selected projects are expected to be announced during the summer, the company said.
