Knox News' charitable arm provides big boost to East Tennessee nonprofits
Knox News and its company parent are providing tens of thousands of dollars in grants to seven East Tennessee nonprofits that were selected through Gannett's A Community Thrives program.
"A Community Thrives is a vital part of our support for important efforts that improve the lives of the people we serve in our coverage," said Joel Christopher, Knox News executive editor. "We're thrilled to help organizations that are doing vital work to make our region a better place to live."
These are the 2022 East Tennessee grant recipients:
Mooresburg Community Association: $15,000
The only delivery service of its kind in the western part of Hawkins County, Mooresburg Community Association delivers meals to older adults and individuals with disabilities, as well as to mobile home parks. It also offers no-cost medical transportation and community outreach and works to fill local food pantries.
Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge: $10,000
The Free Medical Clinic provides no charge primary and medical care for low-income and uninsured residents of Anderson, Morgan and Roane counties. The nonprofit has a primary clinic plus telehealth, access to free or discounted medications, special medical programs, treatments, imaging, tests, lab work and preventative care.
CALEB: $5,000
The group, which stands for Chattanoogans in Action for Love Equality and Benevolence, brings together different groups (such as faith, labor and politics) to work toward common goals. The group especially cognizant of criminal justice issues, economic mobility and education reform.
Friends of Literacy of Knoxville: $5,000
Friends of Literacy helps adults and children in the Knoxville area achieve literacy. Mentors help adults learn to read and write so they can better navigate daily life. The nonprofit also works with schools to offer books and resources for parents.
Breakthrough Corp. of Knoxville: $2,000
The nonprofit offers a variety of services that enable adults with autism to lead purposeful lives. Participants receive respite and recreation, community employment, independent living and therapeutic services.
Joy of Music Youth Music School of Knoxville: $2,000
The organization provides music education to people, many of whom are low-income students, who may not otherwise get it. Grants help students receive free lessons, instruments and music.
Soar Youth Ministries of Knoxville: $2,000
The Thrive After School program is at the heart of the nonprofit. Students participate in programming like Bible studies, homework help, tutoring, character-building activities, educational electives, play time and share a meal.
A Community Thrives is supporting local organizations that alleviate hardships residents face on a daily basis. Nationwide, the organizations work on homelessness, medical care, immigration reform, addiction services and more.
Around the country, 16 National Merit Grant recipients will receive $25,000 to $100,000. In addition to these grants, more than 200 local nonprofit organizations will receive operating and fundraising grants from $2,500 to $25,000. The local grants were chosen by leaders in the 250 news sites from Gannett’s USA TODAY Network.
A Community Thrives has helped to contribute more than $26 million since 2017.
Head to gannettfoundation.org/act in summer 2023 for information about how to apply for a grant for your organization.
A Community Thrives is one of Knox News' charitable efforts. The other is News Sentinel Charities Empty Stocking Fund, a volunteer-run nonprofit that serves holiday meals to those in need.
To donate today, send a check to:
News Sentinel Charities Empty Stocking Fund 2332 News Sentinel DriveKnoxville, TN 37921
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knox News' charitable arm gives big boost to East Tennessee nonprofits
