The Hamilton County Health Department and the Chattanooga Area Food Bank have partnered to distribute food boxes at the Health Department’s Alstom Plant COVID-19 test site to anyone who’s being tested and might be facing hunger.
The food boxes will be distributed on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8-11:30 a.m., while supplies last. The Alstom test site is open from 7-11:30 a.m. seven days a week.
According to a recent study by hunger-relief organization Feeding America, 1 in 5 people and more 1 in 4 children could face hunger as a result of the COVID pandemic’s economic impact.
The report also indicates those at the highest risk of contracting COVID-19 – including seniors, those with chronic illnesses and minority populations – might be the most affected by the pandemic’s economic impact and associated food insecurity.
“Afte people are screened for COVID-19, many have no choice but to stay at home for an extended period, which often means they are unable to go to work and earn money,” says Chattanooga Area Food Bank Director of Operations Chris Payne.
“No one should have to choose between their health, having somewhere to live or being able to eat. While people wait on results or isolate while they are sick, these boxes will provide access to nutritious food no matter how uncertain their financial situation might be.”
The free food boxes at the test site are intended for people who participate in the COVID testing process. However, anyone in need of food can go to chattfoodbank.org/hungry to find help close to where they live. Hamilton County residents may dial 211 or text their ZIP code to 423 898-211 to be connected with a voucher for an emergency food box.
Source: Hamilton County Health Department