Summer Food Programs for Kids
Summer food programs for kids are at the heart of Second Harvest’s mission. When school lets out for summer, many children lose access to free breakfasts and lunches. These are meals families rely on throughout the school year. That’s why Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is expanding our Kid-Focused Mobile Markets […]
Summer Meals for Kids Like Solara
Middle school is hard enough for kids. It’s even harder when you’re the new kid who doesn’t know anyone. Solara understands. “This is my first year at my new school, and I don’t know many people there,” says the 6th grader. Thankfully, Solara found comfort and connection at an afterschool program in Davidson County—one of […]
Why we celebrate Pride Month
Why we celebrate Pride Month at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee comes down to one thing: we believe everyone deserves access to nourishing food. Hunger doesn’t discriminate, but, too often, access to food does. LGBTQ+ individuals face higher rates of poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity. Discrimination in housing, employment, and healthcare can […]
What is the Connection Between Mental Health and Food Insecurity?
For neighbors like Kerry, the connection between mental health and food insecurity is personal. Kerry spent her career in health care. She devoted years of her life to supporting others’ mental health. She knows how essential proper nutrition is for emotional stability and well-being. “We live in a camper, so this helps tremendously, especially with […]
Free Summer Meals Help Kids Like Brennan Stay Happy and Healthy
Free summer meals are an important part of Second Harvest’s mission. Across Middle and West Tennessee, over 116,000 children face hunger. When school is out for summer, many lose access to the school meals they depend on during the school year. Families suddenly need to provide an extra 10 meals per child every […]
The Emotional Toll of Hunger
The emotional toll of hunger can be felt the deepest. There is a complex relationship between food insecurity and mental health. For many neighbors, the impact of food insecurity reaches far beyond an empty stomach. Households that are chronically food insecure have higher levels of distress. That distress can manifest in various ways. […]
How You Help Linda
A retired school custodian, Linda lives with her grandson, granddaughter, and great grandchildren. Her monthly Social Security check doesn’t meet her expenses, and she’s been unable to get SNAP benefits. After paying rent, she says, “What do I have to buy food with?” She’s grateful for a nearby Second Harvest Mobile Pantry in Davidson County. […]
Volunteering Brings Him Joy
A heart attack may have pushed Clark into retirement, but it’s not slowing him down. He regularly volunteers at a Second Harvest Mobile Pantry at his church in Clay County. Clark gets boxes off the truck, organizes the distribution, and then directs traffic so everything runs smoothly. After the distribution ends, Clark takes food to […]
Overcoming Hunger and Black History Month
Food insecurity is a pressing issue that affects millions of Americans, with Black communities disproportionately impacted. This disparity in access to nutritious and sufficient food is not just a statistic; it’s a daily reality for many. Through the stories of Nancy and Christopher, we gain insight into the personal challenges and resilience, and the vital role […]
What is the Best Way to Empower Students for the School Day?
A Student’s Perspective During National School Breakfast Week, it’s important to highlight the pivotal role a healthy breakfast plays in a successful day for students. At Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, we know what starting the day right for young learners means. So, we’re shining a spotlight on the experiences of kids like […]