LPEA customers, individuals and businesses, who round up their monthly bill to the nearest dollar are the source of the funding.

In 2014, the foundation provided $121,132 to 58 beneficiaries: in education, $46,040; community service, $48,823; and emergency assistance, $26,269.

Many electric cooperatives across the country have formed similar foundations to support community needs.

In La Plata and Archuleta county communities served by LPEA, Round Up donations ranged from $265 to $5,000.

Round Up was formed in 1996, and the next year, it presented $1,000 to Manna Soup Kitchen. More than $1 million has been contributed in total.

Donors can sign up for Round Up at www.lpea.coop or by calling 247-5786.

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