Kingsport, TN — September 8, 2026 – As our nation marks the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee is inviting the community to come together through “9/11 Unite For Good”—a special food and donation drive held as part of this September’s Hunger Action Month.
Just as Northeast Tennessee came together to help neighbors during Hurricane Helene in 2024, our nation came together following the tragedy of 9/11. This anniversary provides an opportunity to honor that spirit of unity by helping neighbors facing food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee.
Drive By & Drop Off
On Friday, September 11, from 10:00am to noon, community members are invited to drive by and drop off nonperishable food items or make a monetary donation at Second Harvest. Staff and volunteers will greet donors to make giving quick and convenient.
Suggested donations include canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats and tuna, peanut butter, pasta and sauce, rice and beans, cereal, oatmeal, macaroni and cheese, and other shelf-stable pantry staples.
Every donation helps provide food to individuals and families throughout Northeast Tennessee.
See How a Food Bank Works
Second Harvest will also offer community tours every 15 minutes from 10 a.m. until noon for those who would like to learn more about how a food bank operates and how it differs from a community food pantry.
Tours will provide a behind-the-scenes look at how Second Harvest receives, sorts, stores, and distributes food to its network of partner agencies across Northeast Tennessee.
While food pantries typically distribute food directly to individuals and families, a food bank serves as a central resource, providing food and support to a network of partner organizations that help reach people throughout the community.
The tours offer an opportunity to learn more about the local hunger-relief system and see firsthand how Second Harvest helps connect resources with neighbors in need.
Unite For Good
The 25th anniversary of 9/11 is a time to remember, honor, and come together. As part of Hunger Action Month, Second Harvest encourages everyone to find a way to take action to end hunger in Northeast Tennessee.
Drive By. Drop Off. Take a Tour. Unite For Good.