The New Middleton Fire Department in Gordonsville has received $4,528.00 from The Tennessee Valley Authority’s Community Care Fund program in partnership with UCEMC Cares, Inc. Chief Paul Pope says the funds will be used to purchase much-needed equipment. “We’ll replace the starter and alternator on Engine 702, buy six pike pole brackets, a K-9 rescue blade, booster hose, mask bags, and LED scene lights. We thank TVA and UCEMC Cares, Inc. for awarding this grant.”

Funding for UCEMC Cares, Inc., is provided by generous co-op members who choose to round up their electric bill to the nearest dollar. Since UCEMC Cares, Inc. began in 2014, more than $1.7 million has been given back to community organizations. Upper Cumberland EMC General Manager and CEO Jennifer Brogdon thanked TVA for making these matching funds available. “I appreciate TVA, not only as a power provider but as a community partner, helping us match our members’ UCEMC Cares donations for worthy causes.”

TVA’s Community Care Fund was initially established to support communities across the Valley during the COVID-19 pandemic but was expanded recently to continue through 2023. “TVA and local power companies are continuing their partnership by extending the Community Care Fund program,” said Jeannette Mills, TVA Executive Vice President, and Chief External Relations Officer. “This program continues to help amplify vital work being done by non-profit organizations and is intended to help sustain and improve the quality of life in the Valley.