Local Chattanooga organizations work together to expand healthy food access

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., November 21, 2025 – In Chattanooga, 67.7% of people have low access to healthy food, and the burden is even greater among communities of color; 83.6% of Black residents and 74% of Hispanic/Latino residents face limited access to nutritious options, according to the US Census Bureau. These disparities contribute to higher rates of high blood pressure and chronic disease. 

The American Heart Association and Hope for the Inner City are taking action to close nutrition gaps and improve health in Chattanooga. Representatives from the two organizations and the public recently toured Hope for the Inner City distribution center to explore the facility’s new resources that will help families access fresh, heart-healthy foods. 

Funds for these new resources - a commercial cold storage unit and a kitchen  - were provided through the American Heart Association by a grant from Journey Health Foundation. The upgrades will expand access to fresh produce and nutritious food options for the people served by the distribution center. In addition, iPads purchased with grant funds will replace paper-based processes, streamline operations, and improve efficiency for staff and volunteers.

This work addresses a critical need: “Access to healthy food is essential for preventing heart disease and stroke,” said Layra Navarro-Flores, community impact director, American Heart Association. “Our collaboration with Hope for the Inner City ensures families in East Chattanooga have the resources they need to live healthier lives.”

“At Hope for the Inner City, we believe every family deserves the opportunity to thrive,” said Mr. Anthony Watkins, executive director, Hope for the Inner City. “This partnership with the American Heart Association helps us break down barriers to healthy living by providing the tools and resources critical to serving our community. Together, we’re not just addressing immediate needs, we’re creating pathways for long-term health and stability in East Chattanooga.”

In addition to the food distribution center, Hope for the Inner City also houses a recently upgraded dental clinic, vision clinic, meeting rooms, urban garden, and gymnasium.

As symbols of the organizations’ continued commitment to longer, healthier lives in Chattanooga, magnets with blood pressure categories, CPR information, and tips for living a Healthy for Good™ lifestyle were placed on the new cold storage unit. 

To learn more about the American Heart Association’s work in Chattanooga and Greater Georgia to improve nutrition security and heart health in communities, visit heart.org/tennessee.

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