CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (June 12, 2020) – In March, United Way of Greater Chattanooga put out a call for partners to join in restoring hope for our neighbors impacted financially by COVID-19. Thus far, more than $500,000 has been committed to the Restore Hope Fund by individuals, foundations, and corporate partners who have rallied to support those in need. As an investment in economic re-growth in the Chattanooga area, EPB and TVA offered to match donations up to $50,000. The community answered with generosity that far exceeded the amount required for the match.
Every dollar donated to the Restore Hope Fund goes directly to supporting individuals and families experiencing financial strain due to COVID-19. The United Way worked with a network of local non-profits who answered the call to provide support for community members, many of whom had never asked for help before, by utilizing the fund to meet basic needs like housing and utility payments.
“Many people who lost jobs and wages during the COVID crisis will have a hard time catching up,” said David Wade, President & CEO of EPB. “We wanted to do something that would provide real support to help people in our community get back on their feet as quickly as possible. I am thankful to the many people across our community including many EPB employees who made individual contributions to help our neighbors in need during this critical time.”
“As a part of the Chattanooga community, we see the positive impact that the United Way and its partner agencies have on the lives of so many, especially in difficult times,” said Jeff Lyash, TVA President and CEO. “Just like our partnership with EPB, we believe that we are stronger when we act together. We appreciate the generosity and support of the many people in our community – including our TVA employees — who have made the Restore Hope Fund a success.”
As efforts toward reopening continue and our local economy and community resources reactivate, United Way of Greater Chattanooga will continue to utilize this fund to support those in need while simultaneously working toward recovery efforts, as well as reimagining our current systems to build a more resilient community.
We are grateful for the donors, advocates, organizations and companies that have partnered to champion hope for more than 350 total households, made up of 640 adults and 526 children. This support is still ongoing, but you can see a current impact report to date by visiting https://unitedwaycha.org/restorehopeimpact/.
Many members of our community are still in need, and United Way of Greater Chattanooga will keep the Restore Hope Fund open until those funds are exhausted. If you require basic needs assistance, please call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 to be connected to help.
There has been significant learning in the midst of this unique time in history for our region and world. Now more than ever, we’re driven to empower change at the grassroots level as we reimagine our community together.