Mississippi Power, through its nonprofit Mississippi Power Foundation, is donating $1 million in grants to 13 communities across its service area, primarily in the worst hit areas along or near the Coast.

The grants are intended to help support projects such as restoring youth recreation facilities, green spaces, parks and cultural infrastructure.

“Mississippi Power is pleased to be able to assist with quality-of-life projects in our communities as they continue to recover from Hurricane Katrina,” said Anthony Topazi, president and CEO of Mississippi Power. “We understand the importance of such projects and hope they will help restore a sense of normalcy as the rebuilding process continues.”

The Mississippi Power Foundation was established in 1997 and is funded through corporate donations. Since that time, more than $3 million has been granted to help meet needs and enhance the quality of life for people throughout southeast Mississippi.

“We know there are many challenges ahead for communities throughout the state and along the Coast,” said Johnny Atherton, vice president of external affairs. “The natural beauty of our region and our unique culture help make our area a wonderful place to live. We want to do what we can to restore and enhance those qualities, and our intent is to make these donations to help where the need is the greatest.”

Mississippi Power, a Southern Company subsidiary, serves customers in 23 southeast Mississippi counties. The company earned a 2006 Edison Award, the electric utility industry’s most prestigious honor, for restoration efforts after Hurricane Katrina.