In India, according to the World Bank, approximately 400 million people are without access to reliable electricity and an estimated 100,000 villages are without access to the national grid and receive no electricity. In these cases, the use of coal, kerosene, and other "dirty" fuel sources for power, cooking, and lighting provide energy with intermittent quality and reliability, as well as serious health and environmental concerns.

In a region as diverse as Silicon Valley, the arts can bring people together in shared experiences that transcend boundaries and foster understanding. Through the arts, we gain exposure to the traditions of various cultures and learn of issues important to people in communities around the world.

Many companies support local communities through programmatic grants, but fewer funders venture into supporting nonprofit organizational effectiveness.

For the third year in a row, Applied Materials' annual employee food drive has directed more than $1 million dollars to non-profit agencies focused on hunger relief.  This will enable 34 organizations across the United States to distribute more than 2 million meals to families in need.

You can read the full details on our website.

Applied Materials employees used a bit of engineering and sun power to raise money for the Capital Area Food Bank in Austin, Texas.