October 17, 2025

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Dear Friend,

Back in March, I shared that our food bank network experienced major losses of food and funding directly related to cuts in federal nutrition programs. While these cuts made our day-to-day work more challenging, they’ve made life even more difficult for our hard-working neighbors. As the landscape of federal funding continues to evolve, our community’s compassion shines even brighter - a powerful reminder of why this work matters. This gives us hope and fuels our commitment.

We’re currently experiencing the highest food insecurity rates in nearly a decade, and food prices continue to rise. With the current government shutdown, millions of federal employees, military personnel, federal contractors, and civilians are facing uncertainties of employment and paycheck disruptions. Many hardworking families in our communities live check to check, and they will need the strength of our food pantry network to bridge new challenges in their household budgets.

Despite these challenges, we persist and remain steadfast in our mission to serve our communities in the best possible way, with the highest quality of care. We’ve strengthened our relationships with regional farmers, growers, and producers across Tennessee and Georgia. We’ve invested more resources in our food sourcing efforts and broken distribution records time and time again. And we will continue to do so, because this work is necessary and our mission does not pause.

I recently had the opportunity to hear a Medal of Honor recipient speak, and something he said resonated with me: “Fear is a feeling. Courage is a decision.” Somewhere in our service area, perhaps even in your neighborhood, there’s a father setting his alarm for 3:30 AM so he can arrive early for a mobile food pantry. If he wakes any later, he’ll be further back in line and he’s afraid the food might run out before he reaches the front. The courage of a father to overcome the fear and shame and show up - that’s a decision no father should have to make.

To ensure everyone has access to the food they need, we’re fortifying our resources with the best available information. We’re increasing our messaging across our social media channels. Our website is up-to-date with local food pantry hours and mobile distribution locations.

As November approaches, we’re closely monitoring what a prolonged shutdown will mean for our neighbors and partners. Federal nutrition programs like WIC and TEFAP may be disrupted. We are also preparing for an increase in demand, as changes to SNAP eligibility will place additional stress on families and further strain our hunger-relief network. We are working to ensure our neighbors know their eligibility, understand the changes, and get the help they need.

Our food bank and our communities are built to persevere. We are here before, during, and after every crisis. Our arms and doors are open. Our staff, partners, volunteers, and supporters are showing up every day, stocking shelves and keeping neighbors nourished. In these trying and turbulent times, we’re embracing our responsibility as a catalyst of hope. And together, we’re choosing kindness and valuing humanity above all else.

Let’s keep doing good, together.

Melissa

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