How Ford Good Neighbor Grants Strengthen Communities in West Tennessee

It’s with immense pride and excitement that I share some heartwarming news from West Tennessee: We announced the inaugural recipients of our Ford Good Neighbor Grants, awarding a total of $201,445 to vital public safety organizations and community centers near our BlueOval City campus.

This initiative is more than just donations. It’s a cornerstone of Ford’s broader Good Neighbor Plan for West Tennessee, a $9 million commitment dedicated to community initiatives, workforce development, and environmental protection. Our goal is to be a positive force in the communities we call home.

The 13 front-line organizations receiving grants provide critical services and create spaces where residents of rural West Tennessee can connect and thrive. These became priorities because we heard through our group meetings and listening sessions that investing in public safety and community centers was a top priority here.

We received 35 applications, and the winning recipients truly embody the spirit of grassroots engagement. These are highly localized, often volunteer-run organizations across Tipton, Fayette, and Haywood counties. Our vision with these grants is to empower the local heroes who are directly addressing the unique, immediate needs of their specific neighborhoods.

We stand alongside these organizations in their tireless efforts, reflecting Ford’s deep commitment to community engagement and corporate social responsibility.

This is just the beginning. To the other dedicated organizations in West Tennessee that are also working to make a difference, keep an eye out! Information about future grant applications will be available soon.

Equipping First Responders for Life-Saving Missions

The majority of Good Neighbor Grants directly support public safety, particularly local and volunteer fire departments. Ford’s emphasis is on providing modern, specialized equipment like battery-powered extrication tools, life-saving rescue gear, and essential communication radios.

“The [updated emergency communication] system will allow us to connect with the Haywood County EMA and Fire for the mobile Command Post,” said Justin Lewis, director of Fayette County Emergency Management Agency. “The Command Post is shared by several neighboring counties, and this upgrade will have a significant impact on our ability to have a coordinated response.”

• Fayette County Fire Department and Fayette County Emergency Response each received $10,000 toward essential radio equipment, improving communication and coordination. The grant awarded to the Fayette County Emergency Management Agency will help the agency replace radios for emergency communication in addition to adding an online radio system.
• Three Star Volunteer Fire Department in Tipton County received $15,600 for state-of-the-art battery-operated extrication equipment, improving Three Star’s ability to respond to critical emergency situations.
• Mason Police Department in Tipton County received $20,000 to acquire a much-needed used police vehicle.
• Mason Fire Department in Tipton County received $5,000 for vital truck and garage door repairs.
• Braden Volunteer Fire Department in Fayette County received $10,000 for new safety gear for firefighters.
• City of Galloway Volunteer Fire Department and Somerville Fire Department in Fayette County won $15,600 each for battery-powered extrication tools, enhancing their rescue capabilities for residents.
• Stanton Fire Department in Haywood County received $19,645 for life-saving rescue equipment.
• Haywood County Fire Department won a $20,000 grant for critical rope rescue equipment and rural grass fire equipment, vital for diverse emergency situations.

Three community centers received a total of $60,000 to address critical infrastructure needs, ensuring these gathering places can continue to serve their residents.

• West Haywood Community Center won a $20,000 grant for roof repairs, addressing a fundamental need for the facility.
• Pilgrim Rest Community Center in Haywood County received $20,000 for essential building repairs.
• D-HCT Carver Alumni Association in Haywood County received $20,000 to make its bathrooms compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, improving accessibility for community members.

“The West Haywood Community Center is an important gathering space for town hall meetings, neighborhood watches, community gardens and playgrounds,” said Willie Lee, president of West Haywood Community Center. “This financial support from Ford will inspire us to continue our efforts with renewed dedication and enthusiasm. Partnerships like these empower us to bring transformative change to the lives of those we serve.”

Marianne Dunavant is Ford Community Relations manager and a frequent volunteer in rural West Tennessee.