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The Power of Canned Food

Shelves filled with various canned foods, including soups, baked beans, and stews. Multiple brands and flavors are neatly arranged, fighting hunger with clearly labeled options for easy identification.

Second Harvest could not effectively fight hunger without canned foods.  Their long shelf life, nutritional value, convenience, and versatility make them a staple in pantries across the world. Even ours.   Unlike fresh produce or dairy, canned food can last for years. At our Neighbor Care Pantries, it is important to keep a steady supply of […]

How You Help Linda

A smiling woman wearing a blue shirt, glasses, and a headscarf stands outdoors beside a parked car, with grassy fields and trees in the background—showcasing How You Help Linda thrive every day.

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 bearded man in a blue T-shirt and camo cap leans against the tailgate of a red pickup truck, outdoors with trees and greenery—showing how volunteering brings joy to everyday moments.

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

Nancy & Christopher

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 […]

How are MLK Day and Food Insecurity related?

As we commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we at Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee reflect on Dr. King’s powerful legacy and his vision for a world free of inequality and, by extension, hunger. Dr. King understood that food equity was a critical component of social justice.  Food Equity: A Core Principle of […]

Why Dry Goods Are the Secret Weapon in Fighting Hunger?

Jars of beans, lentils, grains, and preserves are neatly arranged on a pantry shelf. The dry goods are stacked and organized for easy storage, ready for use or donation to a second harvest.

Dry goods are the backbone of Second Harvest.   These staples—such as rice, pasta, and beans – are versatile, nutritious, and long-lasting. We need them to fight hunger in our communities.   While fresh foods are necessary, dry goods serve as the building blocks for a balanced diet. Without pantry staples, our neighbors would struggle to prepare nutritious […]

Does Poverty Fuel Hunger?

Poverty is the driving force behind food insecurity. Poverty touches every part of a person’s life. It leaves families in a daily battle to choose between survival and stability.   Juana knows this battle all too well. Affording insulin for her mother never leaves enough money for the wholesome foods a diabetic’s diet requires.    That leaves […]

Heat or Eat?

A foggy Nashville skyline

Winter is making its way to Middle and West Tennessee. With forecasted temperatures staying below freezing for several days, many families in our community face a heart-wrenching decision: to heat their homes or put food on the table. This stark reality is coming for Middle and West Tennessee, and Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle […]

Publix Charities is Keeping Holidays Full 

For families facing hunger, every meal matters. Especially during the holidays  While some prepare for holidays, others are left worrying if they can put any food on the table. Let alone celebrate the season.  Thanks to Publix Charities, more of our neighbors can celebrate. More of our neighbors can thrive.   In the last 10 years, […]

How Ole South Keeps Plates Full

A Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee truck with images of food and people on its side, parked under a shelter; sponsor logos and “Feeding Hope” slogan are visible.

Keeping the Holidays Full takes a partner like Ole South   The holidays should be a time for joy. For families facing hunger, though, they can bring difficult decisions.    While many look forward to festive meals, some of our neighbors wonder if they can afford the basics. Let alone the extras that make this time […]