CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Brainerd Community Food Pantry is celebrating three years of providing food to the greater Chattanooga area. 

Since 2020, the food pantry has provided more than 585,000 meals. 

They say more than 15,000 families have relied on the food pantry since its inception.

One reason for the increase in need is the rise in food prices. Food pantry leaders say average food costs have risen from $2.64 to more than $5 per household.

On distribution day, volunteers help about 200 families at Brainerd United Methodist Church receive food. 

“We knew that there are people in Brainerd, especially on the tail end of COVID, who have had difficulty getting food for their families,” said Robert Giles, Treasurer of the Brainerd Community Food Pantry. “So, we have been able to step in and provide this to people in the Brainerd area who just needed some extra groceries.” 

The Brainerd Community Food Pantry distribution takes place every second and fourth Wednesday, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

They are currently accepting donations here. Those wanting to volunteer may sign up here. 

“We are an all-volunteer organization and are dependent on the generosity of individuals and organizations to host food drives and make cash donations. Our families are impacted by every dollar received,” said Bess Steverson, president of the food pantry advisory board.