For the fourth time since launching a pandemic program in 2020, Chattanooga’s EPB and the Tennessee Valley Authority are donating utility funds this fall to support programs for those affected by the pandemic.
EPB announced Wednesday it is giving $110,000 to the United Way of Greater Chattanooga’s Bridge Fund, matched by TVA, to address necessities like food, utilities and housing. Since 2020, EPB and TVA have given the Bridge Fund $940,000.
Separately, EPB employees committed nearly $210,000 in personal contributions to the United Way during its 2023 annual campaign, according to a news release.
Across its seven-state region, TVA has supported more than 900 organizations with $22.5 million in assistance since 2020 through the Community Care Fund in partnership with area power companies.
“At a time when the cost of living continues to increase, many people living in our community find it even harder to make funds stretch between paychecks,” EPB President and CEO David Wade said in the release. “We appreciate this opportunity to partner with TVA and United Way in helping our neighbors in need.”
United Way of Greater Chattanooga launched the Bridge Fund in 2020 and has since raised more than $1.5 million to assist 1,300 households, according to the release.
Lesley Scearce, president of the United Way of Greater Chattanooga, said 40% of households in the region are facing financial hardships, and many of those affected are children.
To access free and confidential assistance, call 211, text your ZIP code to 898-211 or email 211staff@uwchatt.org.
— Compiled by Dave Flessner
Staff Photo by Robin Rudd / Chattanooga’s electricity provide EPB donated another $110,000 to the the Bridge Fund created by the Chattanooga United Way to help those hurt by the pandemic. EPB’s headquarters in downtown Chattanooga is shown in 2019.