Making Spirits Bright: Chattanooga Gas partners with the Forgotten Child Fund to support children in need

The holidays should be a magical time across the Tennessee Valley, but for families facing financial hardships, the season often brings difficult choices — such as deciding between paying for essentials like food, housing and health care or buying gifts.

In our community, the challenge is growing. According to a report from United Way of Greater Chattanooga and its research partner United for ALICE, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed, the cost of living for a Hamilton County family of four with two children in child care rose by $8,200 in just one year.

ALICE families often work multiple jobs and earn too much to qualify for assistance, yet too little to cover basic expenses.

That’s why partnerships like the one between Chattanooga Gas and the Forgotten Child Fund — a local nonprofit — matter, especially during this time of year. Volunteers recently delivered boxes filled with hundreds of toys and games to the Forgotten Child Fund, which will be distributed to children and teens in time for Christmas.

“At Chattanooga Gas, we’re proud to stand alongside nonprofits that strengthen and uplift our communities, organizations like the Forgotten Child Fund. Together, we’re helping create neighborhoods where every person feels supported and valued,” said Tiffany Callaway Ferrell, vice president of operations at Chattanooga Gas.

Since 2012, Chattanooga Gas volunteers have donated their time, gifts and charitable contributions to support the Forgotten Child Fund’s mission of distributing toys and games to families in need.

“Volunteerism is the cornerstone of our commitment to building stronger neighborhoods. The Forgotten Child Fund allows us to meet families where they are and help children across the area experience the joy of the holiday season,” said Paul Leath, regional director of operations at Chattanooga Gas.

Founded in the 1960s, the organization is composed entirely of local volunteers — including Chattanooga firefighters, Hamilton County EMS and Sheriff’s Office employees, and other community groups — and is dedicated to helping ensure that no child is forgotten on Christmas Day. In addition to delivering Christmas items to families in need, the Forgotten Child Fund distributes thousands of coats, toboggans and gloves through its Coats for Kids program.