CHARLOTTE, N.C., June 6, 2025 /3BL/ - As North Carolina communities prepare for storm season, Duke Energy today announced new support for preparedness initiatives led by local emergency response organizations across the state. What's happening: Twenty government agencies and nonprofits are receiving Duke Energy Foundation grants of $25,000 to fund severe weather preparedness measures. These Helping Emergency Response Organizations (HERO) grants will help prepare community resources, emergency responders and residents for major storms. Why it matters: Natural disasters have caused catastrophic impacts across North Carolina in recent years, spanning from the coast to the western mountain region. With another heightened storm season predicted, collaborative response planning will play a critical role in supporting communities. Duke Energy Foundation is empowering local organizations that know their communities best with the resources they need to be successful.