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Resources for Tennessee citizens during the holiday season
As the University of Tennessee takes its brief recess before finals week, thousands of students migrate home to celebrate Thanksgiving with their family and friends. While gathered around bountiful tables, they will reflect on the year behind them and celebrate their gratitude over their colorful plates.
For many, however, Thanksgiving is a sensitive time of year. On the ultimate brink of the holiday season, they face insecurity over food and other necessities that can silhouette the season.
Food insecurity is an understated issue in the United States. The most recent statistics from the Food Research and Action Center show that 13.5 percent of family households were affected. This figure is even greater for single parents, families of color and families in rural areas. It's an issue that has grown by almost 14 million people since 2021. The state of Tennessee is one of the hungriest in the American South, according to a survey by the United States Census.
These numbers threaten to grow each year. With so many Americans being unable to afford basic groceries, it's easy to understand why Thanksgiving can be so troubling. Although a holiday centered around community and gratitude, it's traditional to come together around a table decorated with delicacies.
For students or citizens in Tennessee, there are several organizations providing resources to those in need this holiday season.
Second Harvest Food Bank has programs serving children, families and seniors in 18 counties in East Tennessee. They have dates scheduled through the end of the year in Anderson, Knox, Blount and several other counties providing fresh food via their mobile pantry service.
The Tennessee Chapter of Feeding America allows users to find food banks and understand food needs specific to Tennessee on their website. It also has links for interested volunteers to find availability at banks and pantries near them.
The Tennessee 2-1-1 is a weblist of resources with several options to filter based on need and location.
Students also have several on-campus resources they can turn to for assistance. Vols Swipe Out Hunger is the university program for short-term assistance by the Center for Basic Need. Request forms can be found through the Division for Student Life.
The Big Orange Pantry will also be closed Thursday and Friday, but otherwise will have regular hours this week.
