SHREVEPORT, La., Sept. 24, 2019 – The American Electric Power Foundation has announced a $25,000 grant to Hope Cancer Resources in Springdale, Ark.

The grant will support the organization’s transportation program, which enables cancer patients, as well as accompanying family members and caregivers, to obtain necessary treatments and to meet with medical professionals directing their cancer care in Northwest Arkansas.

The AEP Foundation is funded by American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP) and its utility operating units, including Southwestern Electric Power Co. (SWEPCO), which serves approximately 119,000 customers in Arkansas.

 “This generous grant from the AEP Foundation will enable our transportation program to significantly enhance access to care for cancer patients in Northwest Arkansas,” said Brian Holt, president and chief executive officer of Hope Cancer Resources. “Last year, we transported patients 264,000 miles and completed more than 7,700 trips in Benton, Carroll, Madison and Washington counties and a 60-mile radius of cancer treatment centers in Fayetteville and Rogers. We strive to alleviate barriers to life-saving cancer care, and transportation is one of the greatest obstacles patients face,” he said

Jeff Milford, SWEPCO External Affairs Manager in Fayetteville, said, “We are excited to present this grant to Hope Cancer Resources on behalf of the American Electric Power Foundation. The transportation program is vital to helping people facing many challenges during cancer treatment. We’re proud to support this organization serving Northwest Arkansas.”

Hope Cancer Resources’ mission is to provide compassionate, professional cancer support and education in the Northwest Arkansas region today and tomorrow. Visit www.hopecancerresources.org for more information.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides a permanent, ongoing resource for charitable initiatives involving higher dollar values and multi-year commitments in the communities served by AEP and initiatives outside of AEP’s 11-state service area.

The Foundation focuses on improving lives through education from early childhood through higher education in the areas of science, technology, engineering, math and the environment and by meeting basic needs for emergency shelter, affordable housing and the elimination of hunger. Other Foundation support may be offered to protect the environment, support healthcare and safety, and enrich life through art, music and cultural heritage. 

The AEP Foundation is based in Columbus, Ohio.