Tennessee handing out 150-million-dollars to nonprofits to help people in need

TENNESSEE — As the coronavirus continues to strong-arm the United States, Tennessee is handing out 150-million-dollars to nonprofits to help people in need.

Not only does the Mid-South Food Bank hand out food for families but it also hands out diapers to families struggling during the pandemic.

Have questions about the spread of coronavirus? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak. CLICK HERE for more.

It is just one of many nonprofits applying for grant money.

“They’re so grateful, mamas are crying out of pure gratitude,” said Cathy Pope, Mid South Foodbank.

More than a year ago, the Mid-South Food Bank launched a diaper bank to help families provide for their kids.

“Prior to the pandemic we knew we had high poverty 44-percent of our kids live in poverty. Which tells us we are struggling feeding them and proving those diapers,” said Pope.

Since the start of the pandemic, the Mid South Food Bank said the demand for these essential items more than doubled.

Related: Will a $2,000 grant help barbershop owners?

“Our largest distribution will serve almost 400 children in one distribution,” said Pope.

The hard work has not gone unnoticed.

"150 million dollars is available for non-profits. They can be reimbursed for their work on the front lines, said Kenneth Robison, President and CEO of United Way.

The United Way of The Mid South is a grant administrator for the Tennessee Community Cares Program. The organization is tasked with distributing millions of dollars to West Tennessee nonprofits.

“Their charitable donations helping those whose lives have been disrupted,” said Robison.

The deadline to apply is Saturday.

Click here to apply.