The mission of Build It Up East TN is to improve the health of our community and economy and preserve our region’s cultural heritage through the promotion of local, sustainably grown food. Build It Up East TN seeks to build and support a comprehensive food justice program through reclaiming local food culture and supporting producers by strengthening our food system. During our first four years, w
e have brought together members from diverse communities with the aim to create a sustainable, agricultural based economy. Build It Up East TN works diligently to reclaim our region’s food sovereignty and capture the spirit of independence in Appalachia. To reach our goals we use the cultural knowledge of this region to foster empowerment of the local community. We provide accessible workshops on traditional food preservation (canning, pickling, wild crafting, etc.) hosted by community members and our dedicated all-volunteer leadership team. We bring together people from varied backgrounds and different levels of gardening expertise and grow delicious food to feed their families and their communities all while growing and nurturing our community of producers and advocates.
