The Right Hand Feeding Program was established by the Net Resource Foundation to help meet the nutritional needs of individuals and families in the community. The program serves the South Chattanooga and surrounding community from April until November at the Westside Church, at 4001 Hughes Ave.
Free for anyone in need, the store opens every Wednesday at 1 p.m. and contains other items besides food such as household items, hand sanitizer, and COVID-19 testing kits. Nearly 60 people rely on the feeding program every week.
The feeding program started in 2015 in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Food Bank and Westside Church. Since April, Executive Director Raquetta Dotley has purchased more than 7,000 pounds of food from the food bank. The store contains frozen meats, canned goods, drinks, and other nonperishable food items.
Ms. Dotley wants the program to offer a safe place for those in need. “Just because you’re in need of something doesn’t mean you have to be treated that way. We want people to feel welcome and comfortable. It’s more of an honor for us to serve them and it’s fun."
The Net Resource Foundation has served more than 350 South Chattanooga residents since April. Longtime resident, Larry Floyd, says the program is more than just a way to feed hungry families. “This program brings people together. It’s about God, love, and fellowship. The staff wants everyone to know that there’s always someone who cares. It’s a very diverse group of people and they welcome everyone regardless of their skin tone. Everyone comes out and enjoys one another’s company."