KINGSPORT, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee announced it has finished its building expansion project, made possible by a generous ,000 contribution from the Kingsport Community Foundation.

A news release from the Second Harvest Food Bank said the $25,000 gift supports the organization’s expansion, which plays a key role in the food bank’s mission to address a growing need for hunger relief in the Tri-Cities.

The release said the food bank’s expansion “also supports the long-term goal to reduce food insecurity to 5% by 2030 — the rate is currently over 17.4% in Northeast Tennessee.”

“This expansion gives our volunteers the space they need to work efficiently, hold meetings, and access nearby restrooms. It also centralizes our Program Staff, improving communication, workflow, and access to resources,” said Executive Director Rhonda Chafin. “The Kingsport Community Foundation’s donation is instrumental in completing this critical project, allowing us to continue serving our region with the level of support our community expects.”

The following expansion details were provided by the food bank:

• Phase I
  • Internal renovation of the warehouse, expanding the work area where volunteers sort and pack food.
• Phase II: External additions
  • A new Volunteer Experience space with a reception area, meeting area, breakroom with kitchenette, and restroom facilities.
  • Program Staff offices and small conference room to support the Food Bank’s growing operations.
  • A Community Kitchen to prepare fresh meals for after-school programs, senior care facilities, and the Summer Meal program for children.

According to the release, a primary facet of the expansion includes a 9,360-square-foot building addition designed to increase capacity for food distribution and improve the volunteer experience at the food bank, as they are a pivotal piece to operations.

Second Harvest is pleased to announce a recent donation from the Kingsport Community Foundation that has helped complete our Building Expansion Campaign that added 9.360 square feet to our building. This new space added a Volunteer Experience Center, Program Staff offices and a Community Kitchen. These building enhancements address the growing need for hunger relief in Northeast Tennessee and Second Harvest’s goal of reducing food insecurity rates in our region. 

Karen Todd

Community Relations Coordinator

Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee

“The Kingsport Community Foundation and the East Tennessee Foundation are proud to partner with Second Harvest Food Bank to assist in combating hunger and food insecurity across the Northeast Tennessee region,” Greg Pardue, Kingsport Community Foundation president, stated in a release. “As part of our core mission, The Kingsport Community Foundation assists in fundraising efforts for public-private partnerships to make a positive impact in the lives of our citizens and our community. As it relates to public health and wellness, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee is one of our most impactful partners in the region.”

The food bank also thanked The James and Laura Rogers Foundation, Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation, Publix Supermarket Charities, Food City/KVAT Foods, Bank of Tennessee and Massengill Defriece for their support.