Hancock County is promoting community wellness and healthy eating through raised garden beds at the Extension office, a project funded by seed money from the Tennessee Department of Health’s Active Living Workshop (ALW) initiative.

Eligibility for the award resulted from completing the ALW, led by a TDH Healthy Living Coordinator in collaboration with Hancock County Be More Steering Committee members. These workshops identify opportunities to enhance nutrition and physical activity, with funding supporting quick-build projects outlined in local action plans.

The accessible beds, maintained by 4-H members gaining hands-on gardening experience, promote environmental stewardship and community engagement. Local partners are assisting with expansion, and food demonstrations showcase simple ways to prepare fresh vegetables. The program will continue to grow this spring with additional crops, providing free produce and strengthening community-driven food initiatives.

The Clay County Be More team, in partnership with the state Be More team, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, and local community partners, held their first Mobile Market at Hermitage Springs Park. The free-choice market provided 79 households—169 adults and 106 children—with four or more dry goods items and unlimited seasonal produce.

This project highlights the impact of community-driven food initiatives in increasing access to healthy foods.

USDA’s Farm to School Grant
Application Deadline: December 5, 2025 
*Informational Webinar: October 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST- agenda: review RFA, including the grant objective, eligibility criteria, and application requirements.

Farmers markets are more than just places to buy produce—they’re vibrant hubs connecting rural growers with urban consumers and fresh ingredients with local tables. 

With over 8,000 markets listed in the National Farmers Market Directory, these community-driven spaces continue to strengthen local economies and food systems across the country.

Thinking about starting a farmers market in your community? Check out this helpful guide from the UTIA Center for Profitable Agriculture.

Importance of Community Partnerships

The High Obesity Program is made possible with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The views expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the CDC or imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. Learn more about the High Obesity Program (HOP) program at https://www.cdc.gov/dnpao-state-local-programs/php/about/.