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Weigel’s answers call to help others during pandemic

  • Bill Weigel, Rhonda Chafin and Elaine Streno.

  • Bill Weigel

Amid the global pandemic crisis and local impact felt by many East Tennesseans, Weigel’s Convenience Stores announced it will partner with Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee and Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee to distribute 60,000 gallons of milk to those in need.

The announcement was made via a press conference held at Weigel’s Corporate office in Powell.

“We feel compelled to help our neighbors during this global yet local crisis,” said Bill Weigel, chairman of the company. “We’re in the food business. Many of our neighbors have lost their jobs and are struggling to put food on their tables, so it seemed natural we could contribute.”

“Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee is extremely grateful to Weigel’s for the donation of the 60,000 gallons of milk we will share with Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee” said Elaine Streno, director of Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. “ Milk is one of our most-requested items and a challenge to distribute, given it’s a perishable product. The ingenious idea to give us Weigel’s milk vouchers will ensure our clients will have fresh milk when it is needed.”

Weigel’s selected Second Harvest Food Bank as the one to distribute the vouchers.

“They have been helping our local folks over many years, and know how to get these vouchers out to where it’s needed most” said Weigel.

“We knew they were the perfect match, and we appreciate their desire to work with us during these unprecedented times.”

Weigel’s has been serving East Tennesseans since 1931. Weigel’s is a family owned and operated business headquartered in Powell.

The company operates 68 convenience stores, a dairy and a bakery, all within a 100-mile radius of its corporate headquarters.