Let’s end hunger
in Tennessee
1 in 7 Tennesseans struggles with hunger - including 1 in 6 children. Food Banks across the state are here to help!
Purpose
Create a unified voice and collective action to strengthen the impact of all Tennessee food banks.
Mission
To unite the power of a statewide network to advance policy, secure resources, and raise awareness to effectively combat hunger across Tennessee.
Vision
A future where the state's food banks lead the charge in realizing a food-secure Tennessee.
What We Do
The Tennessee Food Bank Association (TFBA) is a coalition of 5 regional Feeding America food banks working together to address hunger in Tennessee. The TFBA enables food banks to better provide a healthy and adequate food supply for people in need by:
Providing a mechanism for communication among member food banks
Assisting member food banks in the acquisition of food
Informing member food banks about legislation that impacts on hunger programs and suggesting appropriate action
Developing public awareness about hunger issues and the role of food banks in combating hunger
Seeking sources of state and federal funding, food, and resources to address food insecurity
Building alliances and other relationships that advance the mission of the TFBA and its affiliated food banks
Our Member Food Banks
Our Leadership
Dr. LaRhonda S.D. Magras has nearly thirty years of experience leading and supporting nonprofit organizations whose missions place people at the center. A commitment to mission-driven and impactful leadership characterizes her work. Dr. Magras' education and experience deepen her understanding of how cross-sector partnerships can work together to remove barriers and foster transformative outcomes.
As the executive director of the newly formed Tennessee Food Bank Association, Dr. Magras is leading a coalition to combat hunger across Tennessee. In partnership with the five Feeding America Tennessee food banks, she works to raise awareness, drive policy initiatives, and secure needed resources. Her goal is to ensure that none of our neighbors has to experience hunger.
Before joining TFBA, Dr. Magras served as CEO of YWCA Central Alabama, where she advanced the organization's mission of social justice and women's empowerment. Her roles at YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, the Office of Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County Mayor Karl F. Dean, and the Martha O'Bryan Center underscore her experience managing and expanding critical programs, advocating for systems change, and building strong community collaborations.
"I am proud to walk alongside our food banks who are doing incredible work serving our 95 counties, partnering with our neighbors, farmers, food pantries, and funders to ensure no one goes hungry in our state. But the demand is great, with 1 in 7 of our neighbors unsure how they will eat today. Together, we can create holistic and creative solutions to realize a food-secure Tennessee. I hope you will join us."
