Covington Electric Cooperative (CEC) recently contributed a combined $15,000 to two organizations dedicated to supporting and protecting children across Covington County. Through match funding provided by CoBank, a national cooperative bank serving electric cooperatives and other rural infrastructure providers, the impact of these contributions was doubled to a total of $30,000.
CEC donated $5,000 to the Covington County Child Advocacy Center (CCCAC), matched by CoBank to provide $10,000 in total support. The Child Advocacy Center serves children who are suspected victims of abuse by offering a safe, neutral, and child‑friendly environment where children can receive coordinated services. The center brings together law enforcement, child protective services, medical professionals, and counselors to reduce the trauma experienced by children during abuse investigations and to support healing for both children and their families. (Pictured top left are CEC’s Public Relations and Marketing Manager Patty Singleton-Seay and CCCAC Director of Operations Lesa Rathel.)
CEC also contributed $10,000 to the Covington County Children’s Policy Council (CCCPC), which was matched by CoBank for a total of $20,000. Established by the Alabama Legislature, the Children’s Policy Council coordinates community organizations and local leaders to improve the safety, education, and well‑being of children and families throughout the county. The Council focuses on collaborative planning, reducing duplication of services, and support programs that address issues such as early childhood development, youth substance‑abuse prevention, and overall child welfare. (Pictured above are CCCPC Council Chairman Frank “Trippy” McGuire and Executive Director Susan Short with Patty Singleton-Seay representing CEC.)
“These organizations are doing critical, often unseen work to protect children and strengthen families in Covington County,” said Mark Parker, President and CEO of CEC. “Matching funds from CoBank allow us to extend that support even further and make a meaningful difference for children who need help the most.” CoBank’s matching‑fund program is designed to support community initiatives in rural areas served by electric cooperatives, amplifying local investments in education, economic development, and community well‑being. CEC is committed to supporting organizations that align with its cooperative values and help build safer, stronger communities across its service area.