NEWPORT NEWS-Lowe’s has announced that THRIVE Peninsula’s future headquarters is one of 100 community projects to be completed this year as part of Lowe’s Hometowns, the company’s largest-ever community impact program. Launched in 2022, Lowe’s Hometowns is a five-year, $100 million commitment from Lowe’s to rebuild and revitalize community spaces across the country.
This year’s Lowe’s Hometowns projects were selected from 94 communities across 41 states as well as Washington, DC, and will address needs specific to each community, from housing and community centers to outdoor spaces and facilities for first responders and veterans.
Each project will receive a grant from Lowe’s to make physical improvements while assisting local organizations with continuing to make meaningful impacts in their communities. At the core of this commitment are Lowe’s red vest associates, who share a passion for giving back to their communities and provide support to every Lowe’s Hometowns project.
Coming November 2023, THRIVE’S future space will house The Market at THRIVE presented by Food Lion, a free food grocery store that will provide healthy groceries in a dignified way, a raised bed garden to grow produce for The Market, a dedicated financial services wing to bring financial literacy and stabilization to families across the Peninsula, and a conference room to provide educational workshops and classes for folks to Level Up. The new space is estimated to serve 30,000 Peninsula residents per year.
THRIVE Peninsula, a faith-based 501c-3 non-profit organization, serves families facing economic hardship in Newport News, Hampton, and York County. The organization provides emergency financial assistance to stabilize housing and employment for Peninsula residents and offers a robust on-site food pantry that’s open five days per week and offers fresh produce, frozen meats, dairy items, and nonperishable goods. In 2022, THRIVE served more than 18,000 people, delivering more than $1 million in aid.
“We are truly so humbled to be chosen for this incredible opportunity,” said Angela York, executive director of THRIVE Peninsula. “For years THRIVE’s growth has been stunted by our lack of space. Last year, we served 18,000 people out of a 2,500 square foot office building. In this new facility, we will be able to lift those limits. Being selected by Lowe’s means that our new facility will be polished and professional, creating an inviting space where families can get aid and feel welcomed.”
The gift supports THRIVE’s overall capital campaign to raise $1 million to cover the entire purchase and renovation of the new building. Currently THRIVE has raised 70 percent of its goal with support from other local companies, foundations, and individual donors.
Now in the second year of the initiative, Lowe’s Hometowns invites nonprofits and community members to share stories of projects in need. Lowe’s is partnering with THRIVE Peninsula, local Lowe’s associates, construction pros, and impact partner Points of Light to complete the project.
For more information about Lowe’s Hometown’s efforts, visit its website.
