Chattanooga’s Latter-day Saints Band Together to Support Local Food Bank: Join the Regional Effort!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently made a vital donation to the Chattanooga Area Food Bank, especially important during the federal government shutdown that disrupted food assistance programs. This donation is part of a broader effort in the Southeast, with 60 food pantries receiving help from the church.

Jason Isaacson, president of the Chattanooga stake, emphasized the church’s ongoing partnership with the Chattanooga Area Food Bank. Members regularly volunteer and contribute food supplies, from semi-trucks full of goods to funding for new equipment. Isaacson shared, “Food security is fundamental. We care for our neighbors because it aligns with our faith in Jesus Christ.”

When the food bank alerted local organizations about a rise in food insecurity, the church stepped in to help. Melissa Blevins, the food bank’s president and CEO, noted that food insecurity is at its highest in a decade, impacting around 120,000 people in the area. She praised the church for responding promptly and generously to their call for assistance.

Since the recent disruption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, food pantries have seen a surge in visitors. Some reported serving three times as many people as last year. Notably, one in five families visiting the Foxwood Food Center were first-timers.

The Chattanooga Area Food Bank continues to seek donations of essential items like peanut butter, soups, jams, canned fruits, and proteins. Ghyrn Wakefield, the food bank’s chief development officer, noted that the need for these items persists.

In recent years, food insecurity has been a pressing issue across the United States. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 10.5% of households faced food insecurity in 2021, up from 9.4% in 2019. This increase has made community responses like those from the Latter-day Saints even more critical.

Local organizations play a crucial role in addressing these challenges. The community’s support can make a significant difference during tough times, showing how compassion and cooperation can help uplift families in need.



Source link