In the heart of Franklin, Tenn., GraceWorks Ministries is a haven of compassion and service. This remarkable organization is an unwavering pillar of support for individuals and families navigating life's challenges. GraceWorks stands as a testament to the indispensable might of community and collaboration. Its mission statement is simple – neighbor serving neighbor, by the power of God’s grace. Through a variety of essential services, from providing sustenance and financial relief to offering guidance and emotional care, GraceWorks exemplifies the transformative capability of grace in action.  

Twenty-eight years ago, a group of concerned citizens and faith leaders in Williamson County, Tenn., sought to provide a solution to the complex issue of poverty within their community – thus GraceWorks Ministries was born. While most area nonprofits and churches focused on a narrow set of support services, GraceWorks sought to work with existing organizations and offer more comprehensive support to their low-income residents for help with diverse needs such as food, clothing, housing, and financial assistance. By pooling church resources with public assistance and private donations, GraceWorks has been able to successfully offer assistance in each of these areas to individuals and families in need.  

With service and compassion at the heart of their daily activities, GraceWorks conscientiously employs these core values in all it does: 

• CONNECT through mutual respect and empathy. 

• CULTIVATE hope through assistance and encouragement. 

• CREATE community by investing in our neighbors through service. 

• CHRIST-LIKENESS in attitudes and behavior. 

By embodying this spirit of grace, kindness, and resilience, GraceWorks tirelessly strives to create a brighter future for all who cross its path. Some key programs and services offered to support the community in this endeavor are: 

• Food Assistance – food pantries, student fuel bags, and holiday food boxes to name a few. 

• Counseling and Support – helping individuals deal emotionally with challenges of hardship. 

• Shelter – assist with rent payments, utility payments and homeless support. 

• Financial Assistance – appliance repair, school supplies, clothing and furniture. 

In addition to those daily priorities, GraceWorks is currently looking for a 6-acre property to build a new facility  – or an existing building with at least 60,000 square feet and 200 parking spots – in Williamson County. The nonprofit is seeking the help of community partners in this search, including the possibility of donation, discounted property, or a long-term land lease.  

Understanding the vital need to address and support our neighbors facing overwhelming challenges throughout Williamson County, Atmos Energy first partnered with GraceWorks Ministries in 2008. Our employees began by assisting with volunteer efforts such as distributing backpacks loaded with essential necessities. As part of our commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities, Atmos Energy has contributed more than $190,000 to GraceWorks’ crucial programs, including $58,000 in 2022 that helped feed 930 neighbors in need. Since 2015, through our Sharing the Warmth program, GraceWorks has offered $166,280 in utility bill assistance to 471 households. Our Franklin, Tenn., office locations have also chosen GraceWorks as the food pantry for our 2023 Year of Giving food drive. 

“For many years, Atmos Energy has generously partnered with GraceWorks Ministries’ “Neighbor serving Neighbor” mission by helping us meet the basic needs of our neighbors so they can cook food, heat their homes, and bathe,” said GraceWorks CEO Valencia Breckenridge. “Atmos Energy has come alongside GraceWorks with special funding to help pay utility bills of neighbors through their donations.  Additionally, GraceWorks was proud to have the support of Atmos Energy as a presenting sponsor at our Annual Dinner this year! We love Atmos Energy!” 

To learn more and support GraceWorks Ministries, please visit: https://www.graceworkstn.org/donate.