United Way Of West Alabama Announces $50K Grant To Fight Hunger Across Region

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The United Way of West Alabama (UWWA) has launched a $50,000 Food Assistance Grant to help food pantries meet a surge in demand brought on by the recent suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and other financial hardships across the region.

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The nonprofit says the grant program will support food pantries serving nine counties — Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa — where nearly 75 food assistance programs are experiencing record need.

“Our West Alabama community is so generous, and I am proud our Board of Directors has allocated $50,000 from our reserves to support those suffering from loss of SNAP benefits,” UWWA President and CEO Jackie Wuska said. “Nobody in West Alabama should go hungry when we have so many resources available.”

Wuska said UWWA is also seeking additional corporate and government partnerships to extend the effort. She then said The Westervelt Company has joined the initiative, helping to support efforts in Hale and Tuscaloosa counties.

Under the program, UWWA will distribute weekly grants of $250 to $500 to food pantries within the West Alabama Food Bank network, with the funds will be used to replenish shelves and provide continued access to food for families in need.

Applications are available now and eligible food pantries must provide a tax ID letter to apply.

“The need is urgent and widespread,” Wuska said. “Together, we can make sure every person in our community has enough to eat.”

Residents seeking food assistance can dial 2-1-1 to be connected with specialists who can help locate nearby food resources.

United Way of West Alabama serves Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa counties by strengthening education, income stability and health through community partnerships and direct support initiatives.

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