In an inspiring collaboration, the Chattanooga nonprofit Be The Change Youth Initiative has launched a campaign aimed at combating food insecurity in local schools. This initiative, titled "End School Hunger," brings together local artists and businesses to create unique merchandise, with proceeds directed towards alleviating school food debt and supporting families in need.
Key Takeaways
- Campaign Launch: The "End School Hunger" campaign aims to address food insecurity in schools.
- Community Collaboration: Local artists and businesses are partnering to create and sell merchandise.
- Merchandise Details: Unique items include sweatshirts, t-shirts, and tote bags, all themed around the campaign.
- Financial Support: Proceeds from sales will help families facing financial hardships related to school meal debts.
The Campaign’s Purpose
The primary goal of the "End School Hunger" campaign is to proactively assist families and students who are struggling with school meal debts. Many children face the challenge of attending school without adequate nutrition, which can hinder their educational performance and overall well-being. By creating merchandise that resonates with the community, the initiative aims to raise awareness and funds to support these vulnerable families.
Participating Businesses
The campaign features three local businesses that are integral to its success:
- Be Caffeinated: A coffee shop located in North Shore, offering a specially designed sweatshirt.
- The Meeting House: A Red Bank establishment selling a unique t-shirt.
- Burlaep: A downtown business featuring a tote bag designed by local artist Tiffany Hargis.
Each of these businesses is committed to the cause, with their merchandise prominently displaying the campaign’s theme, "End School Hunger."
The Role of Local Artists
Local artists play a crucial role in this initiative, using their creativity to design merchandise that not only looks appealing but also carries a significant message. Tiffany Hargis, who designed the tote bag for Burlaep, expressed her hopes for the project, stating, "I want there to be less food insecurity for schools and children that need to be educated. To show up to education with low energy and to be hungry feels like it shouldn’t exist."
Community Impact
The initiative is not just about selling merchandise; it’s about fostering a sense of community and support. Francesca Prado from Burlaep emphasized the importance of providing security for children, stating, "We’re a local business, and we care about the community– we care about this next generation."
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Be The Change Youth Initiative aims to expand the campaign by partnering with five additional businesses within the next six months. This growth will allow them to reach even more families facing food insecurity, amplifying the impact of their efforts.
Through this collaborative approach, the "End School Hunger" campaign is set to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many children and families in Chattanooga, proving that when the community comes together, positive change is possible.
Sources
- – YouTube, YouTube · Local 3 News.
- Local nonprofit, artists and businesses partner to combat food insecurity | Local News | local3news.com, Local 3 News.
