Who are We?
We are Atleana, Landon, Reagan, and Walker - students from a Public Writing course at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This semester, we are crowdfunding for Battlefield Farm, a local nonprofit founded by Chris Battle in 2018 to combat food insecurity in East Knoxville. Through a mobile grocery store, Battlefield Farm delivers fresh produce directly to underserved communities in local food deserts. Our mission is to raise awareness about food insecurity in Knoxville and expand access to healthy, nutritious options for all residents.
What does Battlefield Farm do for the Knoxville Community?
- Battlefield Farm is a vital resource for underserved communities in East Knoxville, particularly the 37915 area code.
- Battlefield Farm works to address this by providing fresh produce, land education, and workforce development to the communities that need it most.
(Any green area on the map of Knox County below signifies low-income census tracts where a significant number or share of residents is more than 1 mile (urban) or 10 miles (rural) from the nearest supermarket. This map was created by the Economic Research Service by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with data from 2019.)
Why Is This A Problem?
- The USDA identifies at least 20 food deserts across Knoxville — areas where the poverty rate is 20% or greater and at least 33% of the population lacks access to a supermarket or large grocery store within a 1-mile radius.
- Many residents in these areas are forced to rely on low-nutrient processed foods.
What are we fundraising for?
- Our goal is to secure funds for the mobile grocery store.
- Provide access to nutritious ingredients for individuals who do not have close proximity to a supermarket.
- Pouring into this effort will serve as one step closer to diminishing food insecurity in East Knoxville.
Our Goal
We hope to raise $1000 for the Mobile Grocery Store! Supporting this mission means supporting a Knoxville community where food deserts are diminished, access to nutritious food options is increased, and all residents are able to live healthy, balanced lives.
Your Impact
- Bringing food to desert areas has a significant positive impact on the community.
- Increases access to fresh, healthy foods, leading to better nutrition and improved overall health.
- Reduce rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related illnesses.
- Strengthen community bonds by bringing people together around gardens, markets, and shared goals. Ultimately, empowering residents to promote food security and enhance the quality of life in underserved neighborhoods.
How can you be a part of the mission?
- Donate to the campaign - any dollar will go towards a healthier East Knoxville!
- Spread the word about the campaign across your community and social media - the more people that are aware about the impact of food deserts, the better!
- Take time to volunteer and connect with your community, whether that be at a local church, food pantry, or other outlet! Your individual efforts contribute to a brighter, healthier community!
Organizer
B
Battlefield Farm & Gardens
Beneficiary