Fentress County is moving forward with a food insecurities grant to purchase essential equipment for local food banks and senior meal delivery services.
Grant Coordinator Amanda Maynard said the funding is being utilized to improve food distribution throughout the county. Maynard said the project includes a variety of items to support local nutritional programs.
“We’ve purchased a couple vehicles for the Senior Center to deliver meals,” Maynard said. “We’ve got a forklift on the list, pallet jack, freezer for the Senior Center, meal packing supplies.”
Maynard said the county is currently working to secure a delivery truck for Feed My Lambs as part of the initiative. Maynard said the grant operates on a reimbursement basis, requiring the county to spend the funds before being paid back.
“A generator is on the list as well,” Maynard said. “We’re hoping, the deadline to spend these funds is June 30th.”
Maynard said she requested a budget amendment to ensure the grant funds are properly accounted for within the county budget. Maynard said the final financial figures for the project will be determined toward the end of the month.
Maynard said officials are attempting to utilize the full grant amount. Maynard said there is a possibility that some funds may remain at the conclusion of the purchasing period.