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Senator Barnes’ and Representative Pitts’ bill eases burden on groups that feed the homeless

State Senator Tim Barnes and State Representative Joe Pitts speaking at Veterans Plaza
State Senator Tim Barnes and State Representative Joe Pitts speaking at Veterans Plaza during the 2008 Election.

NASHVILLE – Senator Tim Barnes and Representative Joe Pitts co-sponsored legislation that will make it easier for organizations that feed the homeless to do their work.

The legislation, which passed unanimously in both the Senate and the House, allows not-for-profit groups to provide meals for the homeless without paying costly permit fees that govern restaurants and other commercial food service establishments.

“These organizations and the good folks that run them depend on donations to do their work,” Senator Barnes said. “Their resources, especially in times like these, are small, and the need for their services is great.

“Sen. Barnes and I became aware of this problem by working with Loaves and Fishes,” Rep. Pitts said. “Loaves and Fishes provides invaluable services to Montgomery County, and with this legislation, they will no longer have to bear the costly burden that regulations would place on them.”

Loaves and FishesLoaves and Fishes is located in Clarksville and serves 150-200 meals from 10:30 a.m. until noon six days a week. They have operated a food kitchen and food distribution center for 25 years.

The legislation co-sponsored by Senator Barnes and Representative Pitts also makes allowances for non-profit volunteer organizations that provide food and lodging for families of out-of-town children undergoing medical treatment – such as the Ronald McDonald Houses.

Sen. Tim Barnes represents Cheatham, Houston, and Montgomery Counties. You can contact his office at sen.tim.barnes@capitol.tn.gov or 1-800-449-8366, extension 1-2374 or 305 War Memorial Building, Nashville, TN 37243-0222.

Rep. Pitts represents Montgomery County. You can contact his office at rep.joe.pitts@capitol.tn.gov or 1-800-449-8366, extension 1-2043 or 109 War Memorial Building, Nashville, TN 37243-0222.

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