1. How does FISH serve the community?

FISH of Knox County serves the community by providing food packages to people low on food and low on money to buy food.

2. How does FISH operate?

FISH is made up of teams, each assuming responsibility for one or more days each month. When someone calls the FISH number the Phone Volunteer receives the call, relayed by call forwarding. The Phone Volunteer records the request for aid, getting information called for on the Delivery form, and then calls on a member of their team to perform the service. If the team cannot supply what is requested, the phone volunteer refers the client to an appropriate agency. The Delivery/Service Team carries out the requested service. The FISH Hospitality pantries are open on the days noted on the FISH calendar. FISH teams with limited resources may refer those clients who can pick up food to the Hospitality pantries.

3. Where does FISH get food?

FISH shops for the best buys for food, including purchasing food from Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. The money for the food needed for distribution by individual pantries is generally provided by the church or organization under whose name the pantry operates. In recent years the FEMA, an agency of the federal government, has made some money available, which finds its way to FISH teams as food bags. This program is coordinated by the CAC (Community Action Committee) with allocations of food bags made by the executive committee of EFH (Emergency Food Helpers).

4. Is FISH a government program?

No, we are not a government program. The vast majority of food and funds to purchase food come from individuals, churches, and businesses desiring to prevent hunger and provide improved nutrition.

5. What is FISH's relationship to other groups or agencies?

FISH is a member of (EFH) Emergency Food Helpers, a networking organization that assists in coordinating emergency food programs at the local level. It is encouraged and advised for representatives of FISH teams to attend bi-monthly meetings of EFH.

6. Is FISH an all-volunteer organization?

Yes, we are an all-volunteer organization, with no paid staff. Volunteers from many different backgrounds, denominations, races, and economic circumstances work together in a spirit of respect for the dignity of every person, believing that no one in our community should go hungry.

7. What if I have an immediate need?

We realize that distressed situations can happen to anyone, and that many jobs do not pay a living wage.

People low on food, and low on money to buy food, can receive a 3-day supply from FISH of Knox county by calling 523-7900. Our objective is to feed as many people as possible who are in an emergency situation. When demand is high, food pantries may have to close early for that day.