Knoxville’s inaugural Dining Out For Life and Pride Month fundraisers totaled more than $7,000 to support HIV care in East Tennessee and beyond. Positively Living partnered with local restaurants throughout June to raise money for its Hope Fund and boost business at participating locations.

“Knoxville showed incredible support for Dining Out For Life, our LGBTQ+ community and small businesses this June,” said Steve Jenkins, CEO of Positively Living & Choice Health Network. “The proceeds will signifi cantly impact our Hope Fund, allowing our 6,000+ clients statewide to focus on their health and well-being.

“We are profoundly grateful to everyone who dined, drank and made a difference. A heartfelt thank you to the participating businesses that made our fi rst Dining Out For Life a resounding success.”

Dining Out For Life partners and establishments offering Pride specials included Abridged Burger Truck, Abridged Oak Room, Bistro at the Bijou, Brother Wolf, Farmacy, Frothy Monkey, Harvest Downtown, South Press, Sticky Rice Café and Xul Beer Company. All donated a portion of earnings to Positively Living. Positively Living also honored several Dining Out For Life participants at recent check presentations.

The Hope Fund covers unforeseen costs for Positively Living clients who experience hardships that make it diffi cult to maintain HIV medication. Positively Living & Choice Health Network has been named a HIV/AIDS Center of Excellence by the Tennessee Department of Health for its high-quality, comprehensive services that address the physical, mental and emotional needs of clients with HIV at all stages.Positively Living will host Dining Out For Life again in June 2025. Business owners interested in participating can contact Angela Bartlett at [email protected].