CULLMAN, Ala. – The United Way of Cullman County is hosting the Cullman Community Cookout on Friday, Sept. 19, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at R.E. Garrison Trucking. For $15 per plate, attendees will receive a hamburger, hotdog, chips, cookie and a drink, with every dollar going towards the VOAD Crisis Relief Trailer Fund. Plates may be reserved ahead of time through the QR code provided on the event flyer, but walk-ups are welcome.
The VOAD Crisis Relief Trailer Fund supports an initiative designed to ensure Cullman County has fully stocked emergency relief trailers ready to deploy when disaster strikes. These trailers will carry essentials such as food, water, generators, cots and other supplies, allowing local response teams to provide immediate help without waiting for outside resources.
“Cullman County has seen its share of tornadoes, floods and other disasters,” said Taylor Johnson, research development and outreach manager for United Way of Cullman County. “Having fully stocked emergency trailers means VOAD can deploy immediately. These trailers can mean the difference between families waiting days for help and getting relief within hours.”
The first trailer has already been funded thanks to a $15,000 sponsorship from Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman, and Rep. Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley, with remaining funds beginning the process of outfitting a second. Johnson said this progress reflects the strength of community partnerships. “This is what true community partnership looks like: leaders, neighbors and local businesses coming together to protect and serve our community when it matters most.”
The effort has also been made possible through the support of Annette Munger and Taylor Foshee with R.E. Garrison Trucking, Inc., as well as Garrison Gives Hope.
“All funds raised at the cookout will go directly toward stocking and outfitting the trailers,” Johnson stated. “With the first trailer already funded thanks to major sponsorships, this event helps build momentum toward a second trailer, ensuring VOAD has the resources to respond anywhere in the county.”
With high expectations for what comes next, Johnson stressed the importance of the community’s role in making it all possible. “While sponsorships get the project started, it is the continued involvement of everyday citizens that sustains it. By buying a plate, spreading the word or simply showing up, you are helping make sure Cullman County is not only prepared for the next disaster but ready to bounce back stronger.”
For more information about the cookout or the fund, contact Annette Munger at 256-347-5238 or Taylor Foshee at 256-736-0053. For more information on United Way’s work in Cullman County, visit www.uwaycc.org.
R.E. Garrison Trucking is located at 9170 Alabama Highway 157, Cullman, AL 35058.
