Food Bank Faces Closure Without Donations: 'We Need Financial Support'

A Critical Moment for Nourish Food Bank

For nearly four decades, the Nourish Food Bank has been a vital resource for residents of Rutherford County, providing essential food assistance to those in need. However, this long-standing service may soon come to an end unless significant financial support is received. The organization’s executive director, Norman Hanks, is sounding the alarm and urging the community to step up with donations to ensure the food bank can continue its mission.

“We’re asking 1,000 friends and neighbors to donate $100,” Hanks said. “That will give us enough to keep our doors open for at least two and a half, three more months while we wait for a couple of grants to start pouring in. We’ve applied for several.”

Founded in Smyrna in 1986, Nourish Food Bank achieved 501(c)3 nonprofit status by 1989. Today, it operates from offices in both Smyrna and Murfreesboro, serving approximately 45 families daily. In June alone, the food bank served 1,391 families, which translates to 3,514 individuals and a total of 73,794 meals. Despite these efforts, Hanks warns that without immediate funding, the service could be forced to close within six weeks.

The Impact of Federal Policy Changes

Hanks is particularly concerned about the potential increase in demand due to recent federal budget cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), part of what is known as the “Big Beautiful Bill.” These changes have already begun to affect families across the county, and Hanks believes the situation will only worsen.

“If you can’t eat, you will not live,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

The fear of a growing food insecurity crisis has led to a social media fundraising campaign launched by current Nourish Food Bank Board of Directors member Racheal Bollmeyer. Former board member Dena Oneal also joined the effort, highlighting the dire need for support:

“Nourish Food Bank – our local food bank that serves families, seniors, children and working folks who are just trying to make ends meet – is weeks away from permanent closure. Not months.”

Oneal’s message encouraged people to contribute through the organization’s website: www.nourishfoodbanks.org. She added, “If Nourish shuts down, thousands of our neighbors will have nowhere to turn. School is about to start, and hungry children can't learn. Struggling families can't wait for a 'someday' solution. They need us now.”

How You Can Help

Donations can be made online through the Nourish Food Bank’s website or via its social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. For those who prefer traditional methods, checks can be sent to the main office at 1809 Memorial Boulevard, Murfreesboro, 37129. The office is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and 3:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursdays.

Expanding Services and Facing Challenges

Despite the current crisis, Nourish Food Bank continues to expand its reach. The organization works closely with local schools to provide weekend backpacks filled with food for children, a program that served 10 Rutherford County campuses last year. This initiative is set to grow in the coming year.

However, due to financial constraints, the food bank will have to reduce its annual holiday meal programs, including Thanksgiving turkey and Christmas ham distributions. Additionally, the organization collaborates with other nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, offering food that fills two grocery store shopping carts for families moving into new homes.

Beyond food, Nourish Food Bank also helps clients access other essential needs, such as mattresses, ensuring they have a safe place to rest.

A Vision for the Future

Hanks, who was recently promoted to executive director, has a clear vision for the future of the food bank. He emphasizes the importance of community support and has been actively involved in advocating for equal opportunities and safety in the area.

As the Nourish Food Bank faces this critical juncture, the call for help is urgent. Every contribution, whether monetary or in-kind, plays a crucial role in sustaining the lifeline that so many in Rutherford County rely on.