Kingsport, TN – The Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency (UETHDA) has a new tool in its efforts to help the low-income and underserved population in an eight-county region of East Tennessee.
The nonprofit agency received a repurposed 19-passenger mobile services bus that has been retrofitted inside and out and has Wi-Fi accessibility, new tires and a custom wrap. The bus was a gift from Atmos Energy.
“This bus will allow us the opportunity to take our services to the clients,” says Timothy Jaynes, Executive Director of UETHDA. “It allows us to reach into communities and neighborhoods not only to provide services, but to provide connections to available resources and opportunities for low-income individuals and families.”
UETHDA serves clients in Carter, Greene, Hancock, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties with programs that assist families and individuals with needs in the areas of education, housing and energy, employment, food, and health.
“Our shared future depends on the economic strength and social well-being of our communities. That’s why Atmos Energy is excited to partner with UETHDA to help those in need,” said Sherry Kelly, Atmos Energy vice president of operations, Mid-Tex Division.
This marks the seventh mobile services bus donation from Atmos Energy to various community action agencies since 2012. The bus was officially donated in a ceremony at UETHDA’s main office in Kingsport on Thursday. Several area dignitaries were on hand for the event including the UETHDA Executive Board, John Clark, Mayor of Kingsport, and representatives from Senator Corker and Alexander’s offices.
