02/27/2026
Smoky Mountain Harm Reduction is partnering with the International Friendship Center and Dogwood Health trust to launch a fresh food kiosk at our Georgia Road location.
The International Friendship Center is leading a new community food access initiative in Franklin designed to remove barriers to fresh, healthy food. Through a $250,000 Collaborative Innovation grant from Dogwood Health Trust, IFC has launched Fresh Access Franklin, a partnership-based effort that will install three outdoor food kiosks offering free, fresh produce and essential items year-round.
As project lead, IFC is responsible for overall coordination, grant management, community outreach, and long-term sustainability planning. We are working in close collaboration with Franklin Farm Hub, Vecinos, Smoky Mountain Harm Reduction, and First United Methodist Church to bring this initiative to life.
The three kiosks will be located at the Vecinos Community Health Hub (U.S. 441 Bypass), Smoky Mountain Harm Reduction (3261 Georgia Road), and First United Methodist Church (Harrison Avenue). Each kiosk will include a solar-powered refrigerator and freezer for fresh produce, eggs, and locally sourced meats, along with shelving for non-perishable food, hygiene supplies, and basic necessities.
The goal is simple and practical: provide 24/7 access to fresh food in locations where people already seek services and support. In rural Western North Carolina, distance, transportation challenges, work schedules, and weather can make it difficult for families to access food during traditional pantry hours. These kiosks remove those constraints by making healthy options available at any time.
A core component of the project is local food procurement. Through our partnership with Franklin Farm Hub, we are purchasing produce directly from regional farmers. This ensures that growers are compensated fairly while strengthening the local food economy. By investing grant funds into local agriculture, the project supports both food access and farmer sustainability.
The grant also covers the initial stocking of the kiosks and community education efforts. Over the two-year grant period, IFC will oversee implementation, track outcomes, and work with partners to develop systems that allow the project to continue beyond the initial funding window.
Security cameras will be installed at each location, not to monitor individuals accessing food, but to protect the infrastructure itself. The refrigeration systems are powered by solar energy, providing reliability even during power outages and reducing long-term operating costs.
Fresh Access Franklin reflects IFC’s ongoing commitment to practical, community-based solutions that meet people where they are. Our work across food security, digital equity, education, and immigration support is rooted in the same principle: consistent, barrier-free access to essential resources strengthens families and communities.
Assembly of the kiosks is underway, and installation will begin soon. As the project rolls out, IFC and SMHR will continue sharing updates and ways for the community to get involved.
For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected].
The International Friendship Center is leading a new community food access initiative in Franklin designed to remove barriers to fresh, healthy food.
