The Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation recently awarded 19 local seniors each with a $4,000 scholarship.

MacKenzie Freeman of North Hall High School was the local recipient.

“It is such a blessing for the foundation to be able to assist these students financially in furthering their post-secondary education.” said Blake House, vice president of member services at Sawnee EMC. “The Youth Scholarship Program is a shining example of what the foundation and Sawnee EMC are all about, which is their commitment to being a partner and supporter in the various communities we serve.”

The funding for the scholarship program is derived from approved uses under Georgia law for Sawnee EMC’s unclaimed patronage capital funds, which are separate and apart from the donated funds that the foundation distributes to charitable organizations.

In the past 12 years, the Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation has awarded $511,000 in scholarships to 141 exceptional high schools seniors within Sawnee EMC’s seven-county service area.

“Supporting those in need in our communities, and helping these outstanding students continue their education is a key part of meeting the foundation’s core mission,” said Dennis Anderson, chairman of the foundation’s board.