Ford Launches First Good Neighbor Grants, Investing $201,445 in West Tennessee Public Safety and Community Centers
Ford Motor Company has taken another step toward deepening its roots in West Tennessee, announcing the inaugural recipients of the Ford Good Neighbor Grants. With a total of $201,445 awarded, this first round of funding directly supports public safety organizations and community centers near the company’s BlueOval City campus.
The announcement marks not just a moment of philanthropy but also the beginning of a broader, long-term commitment. The grants are a key component of Ford’s Good Neighbor Plan, a $9 million initiative dedicated to strengthening local communities, supporting workforce development, and advancing environmental protection across the region. For Ford, the investment is about much more than money—it represents the company’s desire to be a trusted partner and positive force in the communities surrounding its operations.
A Community-Driven Vision
The first cycle of Good Neighbor Grants reflects priorities identified through listening sessions and group meetings held in rural West Tennessee. Residents emphasized two critical needs: enhancing public safety resources and strengthening community centers that serve as essential hubs for connection.
From the 35 applications received, Ford selected 13 front-line organizations spread across Tipton, Fayette, and Haywood counties. Many of these groups are volunteer-run and deeply embedded in their neighborhoods, offering services that larger organizations often cannot. By directing funds to these grassroots initiatives, Ford aims to empower local leaders who are tackling challenges unique to their communities.
“This initiative is about recognizing and amplifying the work of local heroes,” a Ford representative explained. “These organizations understand their neighborhoods in ways no one else can, and our role is to support their efforts with resources that make their missions more sustainable.”
Strengthening Public Safety
A majority of the awarded funds went to public safety organizations, especially fire and emergency response departments that often face budget constraints despite their vital roles. For these teams, the grants mean access to modern equipment, rescue tools, and reliable communication systems that could make the difference in life-or-death situations.
Justin Lewis, director of the Fayette County Emergency Management Agency, described the impact of upgraded communication systems:
The updated emergency communication system will allow us to connect with the Haywood County EMA and Fire for the mobile Command Post. The Command Post is shared by several neighboring counties, and this upgrade will significantly improve coordinated emergency responses.”
Among the funded projects:
- Fayette County Fire Department and Fayette County Emergency Response each received $10,000 for new radio equipment.
- The Fayette County Emergency Management Agency secured additional funding for radio replacements and an online communication system.
- Three Star Volunteer Fire Department in Tipton County was awarded $15,600 for battery-powered extrication equipment.
- Mason Police Department obtained $20,000 toward a much-needed used patrol vehicle.
- Mason Fire Department received $5,000 for critical truck and garage door repairs.
- Braden Volunteer Fire Department earned $10,000 for new firefighter safety gear.
- Both the City of Galloway Volunteer Fire Department and the Somerville Fire Department in Fayette County received $15,600 each for advanced extrication tools.
- Stanton Fire Department in Haywood County was granted $19,645 for rescue equipment.
- Haywood County Fire Department received $20,000 for rope rescue and rural fire equipment.
“These grants are a tremendous benefit for our department and the community we serve,” said Jim Long, Fire Chief of Three Star Volunteer Fire Department. “We are grateful for this award and look forward to continuing our partnership with Ford as we serve Tipton County.”
Supporting Community Centers
In addition to strengthening emergency response capabilities, Ford also recognized the importance of community centers as safe, welcoming spaces where residents gather for services, meetings, and social support. These centers often face infrastructure challenges that threaten their ability to remain open and inclusive.
Ford awarded $60,000 across three centers, with each receiving $20,000 to address critical needs:
- The West Haywood Community Center will use funds for roof repairs.
- The Pilgrim Rest Community Center in Haywood County will undertake essential building repairs.
- The D-HCT Carver Alumni Association will renovate bathrooms to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility for all community members.
Willie Lee, president of the West Haywood Community Center, emphasized the broader meaning of Ford’s support:
The West Haywood Community Center is an important gathering space for town hall meetings, neighborhood watches, community gardens, and playgrounds. This financial support from Ford will inspire us to continue our efforts with renewed dedication. Partnerships like these empower us to bring transformative change to the lives of those we serve.”
