Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry (Outreach) recently received a grant for $16,000 from the Timken Foundation to repair the organization’s asphalt driveway and to purchase equipment for the newly expanded pantry.

“Our driveway was degrading quite rapidly,” said Carol Newton, Outreach’s executive director. “Time and traffic took its toll and the longer we waited for repairs, the worse the situation became.”

Connie Lomax, chair of Outreach’s building and grounds committee added, “Timken’s grant couldn’t have come at a better time for Outreach. We were fortunate enough to expand our pantry and make the necessary repairs to the driveway at the same time. Timken’s generous grant also allowed us to purchase equipment to help our food pantry run efficiently. We are so grateful for their support.”

Outreach is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1991. The organization’s mission is to provide compassionate assistance to Polk County residents who are unable to provide for their basic life needs. For more information about Outreach, visit www.tboutreach.org or call 828-894-2988.

– article submitted by Wendy Thomas