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Martha O'Bryan Center is teaming up with local businesses and musicians to fight poverty

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Posted at 4:21 PM, Jan 10, 2020
and last updated 2020-01-10 20:28:26-05

NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — For thousands of people living in Music City money can be hard to come by, and as Nashville's economy continues to grow thousands of people are living paycheck to paycheck. The Martha O'Bryan Center says that's one in 5 people living in poverty.

One in 3 children in Nashville are left wondering where they'll get their next meal. This is the sad reality the Martha O'Bryan Center Chief Development Officer Peter Martino says many Music City families are facing.

"For the month of January, we are recognizing poverty awareness month and partnering with 34 businesses in town who are helping us collect supplies, make donations, do fundraisers throughout the month," Martino said.

This is the fourth year of the partnership and the participation with businesses continue to grow. Now, one of Nashville's most popular soul singers is using his gift to give back.

"As much as I’m proud of the music that happens on stage and the fun times that are had, I’m more proud of the fact that from time to time we’re able help out people in the community in a significant way, Jason Eskridge said. Eskridge, his band and other local musicians will put on a benefit concert at the 5 Spot Bar. They'll pass the bucket Sunday evening at 6 p.m. with all proceeds going to the Martha O'Bryan Center to help end poverty.

Local businesses like Hot Yoga of East Nashville is also participating. "When Poverty takes over your life that's all you can think about so just freeing up that energy to do more than only struggle," Brooke Allison, the shop's owner said.

Allison is collecting donations as well as offering free classes on Wednesdays. She says everyone deserves a chance to feel healthy at her studio no matter their income.

For a list of other participating businesses visit http://www.marthaobryan.org/news/povertyawarenessmonth