Dear Friend,

In the two weeks since my last letter, we’ve been inundated with one question: How can I help?

Right now, our foodbank and community partners are seeing a surge in need as families and seniors brace for the loss of food assistance benefits. More than 120,000 of our neighbors - many of them children - rely on SNAP for access to nutritious food.

Even if the government reopens this week, the ripple effects of the shutdown will strain families and the charitable food network through the holidays and beyond. This is a crisis, and we have activated our emergency response plan. We are:

• Sourcing additional food
• Expanding staff and volunteer shifts
• Providing additional support to our community partners
• Extending pantry and mobile distribution hours

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Here’s how you can help right now:

• Give: Every dollar makes a difference. Your gift will help us meet this surge in demand.
• Volunteer: Fill critical shifts at our warehouse or a partner pantry. Every hour counts.
• Use your voice: If someone you know needs help, direct them to our Find Food map on our website. Be a fearless advocate - share your concerns and compassion with others and with decision makers.

The Chattanooga Area Food Bank has always risen to meet moments of crisis - from tornadoes to pandemics. We’ll continue to meet this one with heart, resilience, and excellence. Thank you for standing with us when it matters most.

With gratitude,

‍Melissa

‍President & CEO