BUSINESS & MARKETS
Beyond Surplus: What Farmers Should Know About Food Banks, Donations, and Making an Impact Locally
Jessie Lumpkins & Amy Qazi, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle TN
Friday, December 5, 9:00 AM
Food banks are a vital part of our local food system, but many farmers aren’t sure how they work or how to help without adding extra complexity to their operations. This session offers a clear, no-pressure introduction to food banking, tailored to producers and food system professionals. We’ll cover what items are most useful (and which are surprisingly hard to use), how to donate locally without red tape, and the most significant barriers that keep farms and food banks disconnected. Attendees will leave with practical guidance, nutritional insights, and a better understanding of how their work can support community resilience. Whether you're donating surplus, exploring options, or just curious, this session offers honest answers and actionable steps, allowing farmers to contribute to hunger relief in their communities.