Funding Priorities

Our funding targets innovative, effective and measurable programs that enhance the quality of life within our communities and support the following giving pillars: Community Vitality and Education. Priority consideration is given to programs that serve low- to moderate-income families and under-represented populations.

Key focus areas within the giving pillars include:

Community Vitality

  • Affordable Housing – Initiatives leading to increased access to quality, affordable, and energy-efficient housing
  • Environment – Energy Efficiency and conservation efforts as well as environmental education programs
  • Thriving Communities – Quality of Place and resident-led initiatives leading to vibrant neighborhoods, cities and states

Education

  • Quality Literacy Programs – Literacy and tutoring programs focused on early childhood through adult learners
  • STEM Programs – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education programs targeted to under-resourced areas and/or under-represented populations; Digital device access
  • Workforce Development – Programs addressing needs of our communities; credentialing programs providing skills for living wage jobs

Other Charitable Giving Programs

The Community Relations staff administers the following charitable programs, which are detailed below.

Easy Match

Easy Match (the company’s matching gifts program) furthers CenterPoint Energy’s charitable giving by matching employees’ personal donations dollar-for-dollar to non-profit organizations or causes that are important to them. Matching gifts are made to eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. ​

​Board Service Grants

The Board Service Grant program provides a grant to an eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for employee board service. ​​​