Kingsport Chamber ; local restaurants partner to support education

July 10, 2026 - 07:24

The Kingsport Chamber of Commerce has launched a new partnership with area restaurants to raise money for local education programs. Under the initiative, participating eateries will donate a portion of their sales on designated days directly to classroom grants, teacher supplies, and student scholarships.

Chamber officials say the program aims to bridge funding gaps that often leave teachers paying for basic materials out of their own pockets. "We wanted to create a simple way for the community to support our schools while enjoying a meal out," a chamber representative explained. "Every dollar from these restaurant partnerships stays local."

Several well-known Kingsport diners and family-owned spots have already signed on, pledging to run promotion nights where a percentage of the bill goes to the education fund. The effort also includes a "dine and donate" card that rewards frequent customers with small discounts while tracking contributions to the cause.

Local school board members have praised the collaboration, noting that it builds public awareness around the need for consistent funding. The first round of donations is expected to be distributed before the end of the semester, with plans to expand the program to more restaurants in the coming months.