Dear Friend,
I want to take a moment to thank you personally. These past few weeks have been some of the most challenging we’ve seen in our work. The government shutdown and delayed SNAP benefits left thousands of families wondering how they would put food on the table.
And then you stepped in and made a difference in so many lives.
Because of you, we were able to respond quickly and with compassion. Hope arrived when it was needed most. Together, we provided:
- 3 million meals delivered to families recovering from the shutdown
- 95,000 pounds of food donated through community drives
- 5,000 volunteer hours to keep distributions moving
- That’s the equivalent of more than two full-time employees working for an entire year — all completed in just two weeks.
With your help, we scaled up fast:
- Moved 240,000 extra pounds of food each week — a 21% increase
- Purchased and distributed thousands of dollars in essential food — including protein, baby formula, and shelf-stable items
- Delivered 200 home orders bi-weekly to homebound neighbors
- Expanded Mobile Pantries and Mobile Markets so families could access food close to home
Your generosity turned fear into relief. You gave families more than food — you gave them dignity, hope, and the reassurance that they are not alone.
I wish I could tell you the crisis is over.
Even before the shutdown, hunger was already rising across Middle and West Tennessee — up 46% over the same time last year — and these past weeks have made life even harder for families already struggling. Reopening the government was an important step, but many families are still recovering from missed paychecks, depleted savings, and rising grocery prices.
How You Can Help Today
Give: Every $1 provides 4 meals.
Donate Food: Canned vegetables, meats, peanut butter, pasta, rice, and cereal are most needed.
Donate Time: Volunteers are essential to keeping food moving. Join us for a shift at our warehouse in Nashville, Smyrna, or Camden.
Host a Food Drive: Rally your workplace, school, or neighborhood.
Spread the Word: Share this message and invite others to get involved.
Your generosity has been a light in a dark season. You’ve reminded us what community truly means. Thank you for standing with us—and with every neighbor who needs hope right now.
Together, we’ll keep plates—and hearts—full this holiday season and beyond.
With gratitude,
