Google Data Center awards nearly $250K in grants to Berkeley County organizations

Google announced it has awarded a total of nearly $250,000 in grants to 10 different local community organizations in Berkeley County as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to advancing technology, education and STEM-related initiatives.

The recipients of this year’s grants include:

– Berkeley County Library System
– Carolina Youth Development Center
– Berkeley County School District Schools
– Communities in Schools of South Carolina
– Healing Farms
– Lowcountry Food Bank
– My Sister’s House
– Trident Literary Association

“Google is thrilled to support these organizations with funding to help achieve their goals. Each recipient shares Google’s desire to advance critical initiatives within the community which will lead to a long-standing positive impact on both economic development and the workforce”, said Amber Tillman, Head of Economic and Community Development for Google Data Centers. “We understand the value of technology and cannot wait to see how these grants improve outcomes for these deserving recipients.”

My Sister’s House is among this year’s recipients. The nonprofit serves victims of domestic violence in Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester counties. Through Google’s support, the organization will be able to provide access to a computer and internet, which is crucial to providing victims with the tools they need to move safely out of an abusive environment.

“We are beyond grateful for the generous gift to our organization. Thanks to this contribution, we can help bridge the digital divide by providing laptops and hotspots to our clients who are moving into private housing,” said Tosha Connors, CEO of My Sister’s House. “Access to a computer and internet is vital to successful safe and independent living for our clients and their families. This funding will make a huge difference.”

The Carolyn Lewis School, a new school located in Summerville, also received grant money to expand its MakerSpace initiative, which is an innovative “think” lab designed to immerse and prepare students for careers in technology.

“This generous gift from Google will allow our schools to thrive in new and exciting ways,” said Berkeley County Superintendent Dr. Anthony Dixon. “A Robotics club, construction of a new greenhouse, and artist in residence are just some of the examples of how Google grants will make a difference to both our teachers and students over the next year. These grants will have a long-lasting impact in our district and we are excited to see the grants put in motion.”

“The Google Data Center has provided tremendous support in Berkeley County. Grants such as these are a testament to the impact a global company can have on the local level. We congratulate all those who received grants this year,” said Johnny Cribb, Berkeley County Supervisor.

Google has a long-standing relationship with the state of South Carolina and is proud to support so many organizations across the state. With the support of lawmakers like Senator Larry Grooms, Google can continue to make a lasting impact.

Speaking on the grants, Senator Grooms said, “I appreciate Google’s continued commitment to our community through these generous grants which serve as a testament to their dedication to fostering growth and innovation right here in South Carolina. Google’s investments in our local organizations will undoubtedly have a lasting impact, furthering our shared vision for a brighter future.”