Feeding Our Neighbors

Hurricane Helene exacerbated food insecurity in some of the region’s most vulnerable communities. This reality and a mission for fighting hunger drove our partners at Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee (Second Harvest) to expand support for families affected by the hurricane.

With a $100,000 grant from the East Tennessee Foundation (ETF), Second Harvest strengthened recovery efforts in Carter, Greene, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington counties. From the earliest days after the storm, the organization worked alongside local leaders delivering food, gift cards, and even kitchen appliances to help displaced families.

ETF funding allowed the food bank to purchase a new cargo van dedicated to disaster relief distributions. In a rural region where transportation gaps often mean the difference between help and hunger, this new vehicle is ensuring that food reaches those who need it most.

“We are deeply grateful for this generous grant provided by the East Tennessee Foundation during this crucial time in our region,” said Rhonda Chafin, Executive Director of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee. “Their investment has enabled us to respond swiftly and effectively to the urgent needs created by Hurricane Helene, ensuring that families across our region received the food and support they needed in the aftermath of the storm and continuing during the rebuilding process.”

As recovery continues, the van’s impact also overlaps other needs. Once Helene distributions are complete, it will serve Second Harvest’s Summer Food Service Program, ensuring that children who rely on school meals for daily nutrition have access to food in the summer months.

“Over 20 percent of the children in our region face food insecurity,” Chafin shared. “In the past, we had to rent vans to make our summer meal program possible. Thanks to the East Tennessee Foundation, now we have a reliable vehicle of our own – a gift that will keep serving the community for years to come.”