At the La Mesita Family Homeless Shelter, the goal is to provide more than a bed and a meal to struggling families. At this Mesa-based shelter operated by nonprofit A New Leaf, families are provided with safe housing and support services for up to 120 days. And that costs money.

When Michael Hughes, chief executive officer at A New Leaf, heard the nonprofit was one of three Valley organizations chosen by Salt River Project to receive a donated solar system to offset the cost of energy, he was thrilled.

"This novel donation will have a great impact for our organization," said Hughes. "We will be able to redirect funds to provide essential services like basic needs, case management, children's services, employment services, and so much more. It's innovation with a heart."

SRP has chosen three Valley nonprofit organizations – A New Leaf: La Mesita Family Homeless Shelter & Donation Center, Arizona Humane Society and Arizona Agriculture and Equine Center (AAEC) – to receive solar systems that will generate green, emission-free energy provided by the SRP Solar for Nonprofits program. Since 2007, the program has completed 49 solar system installations that have collectively helped nonprofits save more than $600,000 while providing green, emission-free energy for their buildings.

"This is a great partnership with our customers who contribute to the program, and an impactful way to invest in green energy while helping nonprofit agencies direct more funds to the communities they serve," said Dan Dreiling, SRP director of Customer Programs. "The program supports our commitment to investing in Arizona-produced, solar energy projects that also benefit the nonprofit arena."

The savings from the solar installation at the Arizona Humane Society's Nina Mason Pulliam Campus for Compassion could be used to help treat 530 orphaned, newborn kittens or 220 puppies and dogs who are in need of treatment for the often deadly Parvovirus.

"The impact that the savings from the solar installation will have on hundreds of the Valley's most vulnerable animals is truly lifesaving," said Dr. Steven Hansen, Arizona Humane Society President and CEO. "These funds will ensure that the efforts taking place in critical medical areas such as AHS' trauma hospital, Parvo Puppy ICU and newborn kitten nursery will go even further to save the lives of pets who are not often given a second chance in other shelters."

AAEC Early College High School provides students with limitless opportunities to prepare for their future careers, by matching a rigorous educational program with concurrent enrollment at Mesa Community College.

"We are fortunate to be considered for this great opportunity," said AAEC Principal Eric Stevens. "Any money saved as a part of lowering our energy consumption will go into broadening and enhancing educational opportunities for our students."

Solar for Nonprofits is funded by SRP and customers who contribute as little as $3 a month. For information about how to join, go to srpnet.com/solarfornonprofits.