EAST TENNESSEE NONPROFITS AND BUSINESSES RALLY AS SNAP FUNDING LAPSES LOOM
In Maryville, local nonprofits and businesses are mobilizing to address an impending lapse in federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), announced by the Trump administration and confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which will halt benefits starting November 1.
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee has activated its emergency plan, preparing extra food boxes, boosting supplies at mobile pantries, and providing partner agencies with essentials like mac and cheese, peanut butter, and shelf-stable milk, emphasizing that the crisis centers on supporting families and communities through collective compassion.
The organization, reachable at 865-521-0000 or via its website, continues uninterrupted operations amid rising demand, with Anakeesta hosting “Appreciation Days” to fundraise. The Knoxville Salvation Army has launched an emergency food program, while Governor Bill Lee’s office collaborates with faith groups and nonprofits to prevent hunger among over 690,000 Tennesseans dependent on SNAP.
Nationally, the funding expiration threatens more than 40 million people, particularly the most vulnerable in East Tennessee, as highlighted by Second Harvest.
