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Healthy communities are places where all residents have equitable access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive physically, mentally, and socially.
A thriving community is where everyone has access to nutritious foods and quality, affordable healthcare.
A food system is the complex network of activities involved in feeding a population. Thriving communities are characterized by access to quality, affordable, nutritious foods and healthcare, strong social connections and safe environments. Limited access to fresh fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods contributes to the overall health and well-being of our neighbors.
Vulnerable populations, including low-income families, children, older individuals and historically underserved populations face greater challenges in accessing nutritious food. Understanding the interconnected factors is essential to promoting equity and developing policies and initiatives that strengthen our food system.
Creating a just, equitable food system rooted in community is at the heart of what we do at United Way of Greater Knoxville. We promote better health outcomes by working alongside our donors and supporters to create a just, equitable food system rooted in community.
People experiencing food insecurity often face issues around housing, childcare, transportation and mental health. Rather than addressing hunger alone, we focus on community food security. This allows us to consider the environment and conditions in which a person is born, lives, works and plays.
With the help of ten partner organizations, we surveyed 848 Knox County community members about food insecurity. We learned that food insecurity can happen to anyone—single parents, college students, young families and more. We also learned that it is a problem we can fix when we unite for change.
United, we are building thriving communities. Sign up to receive updates and harness the caring power of our community to help our neighbors.
In the wake of freezing temperatures and winter storms, many of our neighbors were left without adequate food, clothing and shelter in January 2024.
United Way of Greater Knoxville coordinated with city and county employees, emergency responders, nonprofit organizations, churches, grocery stores and community volunteers to help meet the needs. Together, we were able to collect and distribute three truckloads of donated fresh produce, emergency food boxes, fresh baked goods, 160 hot meals, new clothing and supplies to four warming centers.
Email our team at info@unitedwayknox.org.
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