East Ridge Food Pantry to Receive $10,000

The Hamilton County Commission on Wednesday unanimously approved the County Mayor’s resolution allocating $195,000 in unrestricted opioid settlement funds to local food banks. These one-time funds will support more than 34,000 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients affected by the federal government shutdown.

“This is a moment for county government to step up and meet a real need in our community,” said Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp. “Reliable access to nutritious food is essential to the health and stability of Hamilton County families, and our food banks continue to serve as lifelines for those most affected by the federal shutdown.”

Area partners—including the Chattanooga Area Food Bank, Brainerd Community Food Pantry, and East Ridge Food Pantry—have reported increased demand as SNAP benefits remain on hold. With this investment, Hamilton County is helping ensure local food pantries and community organizations have the resources needed to provide meals and emergency food support to families across the region.

“When families in Hamilton County are facing uncertainty, it’s important that we do what we can to help,” said County Commission Chairman Ken Smith. “By supporting local organizations already serving on the front lines, we’re helping ensure no one in our community goes hungry during this difficult time.”

Funding Breakdown:

• Chattanooga Area Food Bank — $100,000
• Snack Pack Program — $25,000
• Apison Food Pantry — $10,000
• The Bethlehem Center — $10,000
• Brainerd Community Food Pantry — $10,000
• East Ridge Food Pantry — $10,000
• Northside Neighborhood House — $10,000
• Soddy-Daisy Food Bank — $10,000
• Red Bank Community Food Pantry — $10,000