The Bethlehem Center to tackle food insecurity with $425,000 grant

The Bethlehem Center recently received $425,000 from the Chattanooga Area Food Bank as part of a pass-through grant from Feeding America’s Food Security Equity Impact Fund, according to a news release. The fund, established in March 2021, is set up to increase investments to communities of color which are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, ultimately addressing the root causes of hunger.

The food bank and Bethlehem Center submitted a joint proposal, and in June 2022, the food bank was one of 25 Feeding America members to be awarded in the initial round of funding, the news release stated. The proposal aimed to combat food insecurity among Chattanooga’s Black and Latino communities.

In early August 2023, the food bank and Bethlehem Center together were one of six grantees invited to a Feeding America conference in Houston. They reported on their collaboration and progress made possible by the award.

“We are immensely grateful and humbled by the generosity of Feeding America in supporting our partnership with the Chattanooga Area Food Bank,” Reggie Smith, executive director of The Bethlehem Center, said in the release. “With this generous support, we are equipped to make a profound difference in the lives of those facing hunger and to fortify our efforts in creating a community where no one has to worry about where their next meal will come from.”

Food bank President and CEO Melissa Blevins said the organization is committed to providing equitable access to food and addressing issues that perpetuate food insecurity and food inequity.

“The Beth is committed to finding equitybased solutions through their programs, education and expertise. They’re a valued member of the Chattanooga community, and a beloved partner of the food bank,” she said in the news release.

Kathy Martin Chattanooga Area Food Bank