Community

Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

The Front Lines Of Food Insecurity In Chattanooga And Beyond

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published September 1, 2021 at 4:17 PM EDT

Potatoes gathered from the Food Bank’s harvest this summer.

In the past year-and-a-half, food insecurity has risen sharply across Tennessee and elsewhere - especially for children.

The upcoming increase in Federal SNAP benefits will help families in need as jobless benefits expire and the Delta variant of COVID-19 affects the economy - but as Hunger Action Awareness Month begins across the country, what is the current and likely future impact of food insecurity here in Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley?

Melissa Blevins is the president and CEO of the Chattanooga Area Food Bank.