The John Deere Foundation has donated $20,000 to United Way of Greene County.

The funds will serve those most affected by unemployment in Greene County, according to a news release from United Way.

Amy Nimmer, the John Deere Foundation's president, said, "The purpose for this one-time program is to address the increased demand for human services in these uncertain economic times.

"This additional support will help funded agencies meet the needs of the increasing number of people they are serving."

The grant was allocated in a special process by local volunteers.

United Way of Greene County and the John Deere Foundation entertained applications from several local agencies that provide services needed by those who are dealing with dramatic reductions in income.

The John Deere Foundation said it gave priority to those organizations that proposed programs to meet needs not currently being addressed.

The allocation committee of United Way of Greene County, along with two representatives from John Deere Power Products in Greeneville, reviewed agency applications and elected to distribute the $20,000 grant through Greeneville-Greene County Community Ministries (Food Bank).

The funding is earmarked for two important needs in our community:

* Utilities, including assistance with deposits and greater assistance with utility bills for those who meet income eligibility requirements and are affected by unemployment; and

* Housing, including assistance with deposits and greater assistance with rent and/or mortgage payments for those facing foreclosure or eviction, while meeting income eligibility requirements.

Robbie Bailey, John Deere's local human resource manager, said, "The Greene County-area United Way selected agencies that serve human essentials: food, shelter, rent, utilities and counseling.

"John Deere has always responded to extraordinary community need and we are pleased again to be able to answer the call."

David Bailey, United Way of Greene County board president, said "John Deere is a tremendous asset to Greene County.

"In addition to United Way, John Deere provides support to dozens of programs that serve residents of Greene County.

"We appreciate community leaders, like John Deere, who step up to help those in need."