Kingsport, TN – September 22, 2026 – Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee today announced it received a $310,000 donation from Publix Charities to support the food bank’s programs, infrastructure, and agency partnerships.
Publix corporate executives, along with the CEO of Feeding America, will formally present the $310,000 donation during Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee’s 40th Anniversary Celebration on October 21st.
“Publix Charities continues to be an incredible partner in our mission to end food insecurity in Northeast Tennessee,” said Rhonda Chafin, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee. “This $310,000 investment will support our Food for Kids Program while also helping us make needed improvements to our facility. These investments strengthen our ability to safely serve our neighbors throughout the region, both today and for years to come.”
“As a food retailer, we believe our greatest opportunity to give back is helping feed our neighbors in need — a responsibility we take to heart,” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “We are grateful to Publix Charities for its generous support and working with food banks throughout the Southeast to provide nourishment to our communities.”
The $310,000 donation from Publix Charities to Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee is one of several donations made this year to help provide food and other essential support to people facing hunger. In all, Publix Charities is donating $25 million to Feeding America partner food banks and other nonprofit partners for hunger-related efforts in 2026.