Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We understand that you may have questions about Community Food Connection (CFC), our services, and how we can assist you. To provide clarity and support, we’ve compiled a list of common inquiries and their answers.
The CFC Food Pantry is open to anyone in need of food.
Food insecurity is an official term from the USDA. It’s when people don’t have enough to eat and don’t know where their next meal will come from. It’s a big problem in the United States, where over 44 million people, including 13 million children, experience food insecurity annually.
You are welcome to get food once every two weeks.
On your first visit, please bring or fill out the brief intake form. You will need a photo ID every time you visit.
CFC relies on monetary and food donations, and grants. Area grocery and super stores donate items. We receive pantry items through food drives, and we use financial donations to purchase food from Second Harvest of East Tennessee. Our staff and volunteers also make purchases direct from stores to meet our clients’ needs.
The Community Action Agency of Blount County has compiled a useful guide to food pantry and free meals in the community. It can be found on the United Way of Blount County website.
Donate or Volunteer? Not in a position to offer help? Help us spread the word. We are always looking for ways to build awareness.
In 2023, CFC served 53,471 clients. Children make-up 25% of our clients and 25% are seniors. Our food comes from in-kind donations, food rescue from other businesses, USDA, and purchases from Second Harvest we as an organization are able to make. In addition to paying rent, CFC has minimal operating expenses and one part time employee.
Community Food Connection (CFC) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that your generous gifts and donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Please consult with your tax advisor or financial professional for specific details on how your contributions to CFC may benefit your individual tax situation. We are committed to transparency and will provide any necessary documentation to assist you in claiming your tax deduction.
- Dry cereal
- Canned Vegetables “low sodium” preferred
- Canned Fruit “light syrup” or “100% juice” preferred
- Coffee & Tea
- Canned Tuna/Chicken “packed in water” preferred
- Canned Meals chili, ravioli, stew
- Sugar, Flour and Cornmeal 4/5 lb bags
- Vegetable Oil / Mayonnaise
- Pasta
- Pasta Sauce in plastic jars or cans
- Instant Oatmeal Flavored
- Canned Soup and Broth / Stock
- Peanut Butter
- Herbs and Spices
- Personal Hygiene items
