Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee is awarded $60,000

Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee is pleased to announce their award of $60,000 through Walmart’s “Fight Hunger. Spark Change.” initiative.

Second Harvest was one of approximately 200 Feeding America affiliates who competed for votes on Walmart’s website. The top 50 affiliates, including Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, were awarded $60,000 – enough for the food bank to provide 180,000 meals to the hungry in East Tennessee.

From September 15 through October 5, customers visited www.walmart.com/fighthunger to cast one vote per day that directed funds to participating Feeding America food banks – such as Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. The 50 winning food banks each will receive a $60,000 grant.

“We want to extend our gratitude to everyone who voted during the Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign. With the community’s support, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee was awarded $60,000, which equates to 180,000 meals to the hungry in our 18 county service area.” Said, Elaine Streno, Executive Director of Second Harvest. “Not only will the people in our service area be fed, but two other Tennessee food banks also received the $60,000 grant to help those in need. We are so thankful for those who are willing to help their neighbors.”

The campaign launched during a critical time in our nation when food banks face a growing need for donations due historically high rates of food insecurity. In Second Harvest’s 18 county service area, people struggling with hunger continues to be a problem. 1 in 5 East Tennesseans is at risk of hunger.

“At Feeding America, we believe no one in America should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from, so we are proud to continue our partnership with Walmart to help make this vision a reality,” said Bob Aiken, CEO of Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization. “Through this initiative, Walmart, along with its associates, customers and suppliers will make a lasting impact in helping to reduce hunger in America.”

Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee would like to thank the Walmart Foundation, sponsors, our local Walmart stores, and especially those who voted in the Fight Hunger. Spark Change. campaign for their outstanding efforts to help end hunger.