Hope Hohenwald puts $17k grant to use for the community

Last year 1.3 million pounds of food was distributed in Lewis County to those suffering from food insecurity and the number has only grown this year due to the ongoing demand and challenges the community has faced.

In response, Amerigroup Tennessee has donated a forklift and installation process for a commercial grade walk-in cooler to Hope Hohenwald Inc. to increase food storage capacity, and preserve meat, dairy and fresh vegetables in order to keep up with the ongoing need and demand for impacted individuals, families and seniors in the community. Many food distribution organizations must turn down donations due to the inability to store items that require a refrigerator and/or freezer.

"Our passion at Hope Hohenwald Inc. is to meet the needs ofour community and to break the cycle of crime, poverty, hopelessness, hunger, and destructive lifestyles," said Tonya Woodward, President & CEO of Hope Hohenwald. "Amerigroup's support allows us to continue our mission.

The recent $17,000 grant purchased a much-needed forklift and paid for the installation process of an already donated walk-in cooler. "We are glad for the partnership we have with Amerigroup to continue serving our community members."

Amerigroup Tennessee has continued to work with community organizations and partners to find innovative solutions to solve for food insecurity, especially during times of increased need. Amerigroup is committed to improving and expanding services for affordable and healthy food options to improve the overall health of Tennesseans. The organization is engaging alongside non-profit organizations and other partners as a leading champion for direct community action and food relief initiatives.