In an effort to support communities affected by Hurricane Helene, the Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee has announced a new monthly mobile food distribution program in Cocke County. Starting on March 25, the initiative aims to provide essential food supplies to households in need. This ongoing relief effort reflects the organization's commitment to addressing long-term recovery needs and ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals.

Beginning this month, the mobile food distribution will take place on the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Cocke County Fairgrounds in Newport. Gates open at 9 a.m., with food distribution commencing at 10 a.m. The event continues until all available food is distributed. Two fully loaded trucks are expected for the first distribution, carrying enough food to serve approximately 600 households. Families can expect to receive a variety of items, including meat, produce, dairy, and shelf-stable goods.

This initiative aligns with Second Harvest's broader mission to sustain communities through challenging times. Elaine Streno, executive director of Second Harvest, emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating that providing consistent aid is crucial for those impacted by the floods caused by Hurricane Helene. With over 230 mobile pantries operating annually across their service area, the organization remains dedicated to nourishing communities in need.

To ensure equitable distribution, each individual collecting food may do so for their own household and one additional household. Those picking up food on behalf of others must bring proof of address to confirm residency at separate locations. This requirement helps maintain fairness and ensures resources reach as many families as possible.

The launch of this monthly mobile food distribution highlights the resilience and dedication of organizations like Second Harvest. By committing to long-term assistance, they aim to alleviate the burden on families recovering from natural disasters. Through coordinated efforts and community support, the hope is that affected areas will continue to rebuild and thrive.