Google provides support for Ellis Co. community organizations

MIDLOTHIAN – Google is providing more than $125,000 in support to seven community-based organizations in Ellis County to support key outreach and resource initiatives for local residents. 

Google’s Data Center Community Impact Program awards help support eligible organizations and initiatives that make a difference in Google data center communities.

Google, which operates data centers in Midlothian and is building a new data center campus in Red Oak, will provide funds to Bridges Training Foundation, Common Ground Ministries, Eagle Oak Retreat, Midlothian Senior Citizens Activity Center, Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services, Reach Council, and the Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering.

“Bridges is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities across Ellis County to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives,” said Dr. Crystal Rentz, executive board member of Bridges Training Foundation. 

“On behalf of our team and those we serve, we are incredibly grateful for Google’s commitment to our region. 

“This support enables us to work in the community and launch new initiatives that will remove barriers, enhance access to services, and create opportunities for our program participants to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society.”

“REACH Council is thrilled to accept this funding, which will bolster our work in Midlothian to educate students, families, school staff and law enforcement on substance misuse and increase access to life-saving interventions,” 

Cassie Street, chief operating officer of REACH Council Prevention Services, said. 

“Google’s support is vital to expanding our mission and we’re thankful for their recognition and contribution to combating this crisis.”

The community impact funds from Google will help the recipient organizations provide healthcare services, residential programs, veteran support, workforce training and STEM initiatives in the following ways:

Bridges Training Foundation will address challenges in navigating complex health and social service systems for unemployed and underemployed Midlothian adults with disabilities.

Common Ground Ministries will purchase tablets for its rising fifth graders to help them meet the digital demands of middle school. 

Eagle Oak Retreat will support its Warrior Progressive and Alternative Training for Helping Heroes program, offering support for veterans and first responders facing PTSD.

Midlothian Senior Citizens Activity Center will upgrade furniture to create more comfortable and functioning collaboration spaces for its 300 members. 

Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services will empower former foster children as they transition to young adulthood.

The REACH Council will educate the community on the dangers of fentanyl, counterfeit pills and other opioids, including how to recognize an overdose and administer life-saving naloxone. 

Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering will spark 6th through 12th grade students’ interest in engineering and support their long-term success with after school clubs and competition events. 

“Google deeply values the power of community, and our growing presence in Ellis County reflects our long-term commitment to this region,” said Kate Franko, Regional Head of Data Center Public Affairs for Google.