KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Federal spending cuts have led to empty shelves at Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, the region’s largest food bank.
It’s the latest update in a story that began at the end of March when the U.S. Department of Agriculture canceled 21 tractor-trailer shipments of supplies headed into East Tennessee.
Previous Coverage: Federal government cancels almost $1M in food shipments to Second Harvest Food Bank
An entire shelf of supplies now sits empty in Second Harvest’s warehouse, the food bank said.
“While the rest of our warehouse remains sufficiently prepped to continue our operations, these empty shelves represent a glimpse of what your food bank is working to restock and replace,” a post from the food bank said.
The shipments — $722,000 worth of good — were funded by the Commodities Credit Corporation, which is currently paused for federal review. Pausing the program has put more strain on Second Harvest, and the bank has spent the last few weeks asking for help.
“No matter how you choose to stand with us, your support can make a lasting difference,“ the post said. ”Please consider hosting a food drive, making a financial gift, or simply spreading the word today.”
The USDA responded to a request for statement days after Second Harvest’s announcement, saying the government agency was still working to make sure people got fed. At the time, the USDA did not answer questions WVLT asked about what the review process for the Commodities Credit Corporation would look like.
Previous Coverage: USDA responds after cutting $700K in food deliveries from Second Harvest
WVLT News has once again reached out for clarification, but has not heard back.
Those interested in donating to Second Harvest can do so here.
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