To most of us, hunger is no more than a fleeting sensation. Three square meals are a nonnegotiable, and often we can snack on a whim without a second thought.
True hunger only seems to exist on some dire spectrum in a far off place, certainly not in our neighborhoods. But if we dare to imagine a situation in which we lost nearly everything, including our livelihood, our home, our health and perhaps a family member we depended on, poverty ebbs closer to home.
When we imagine having so little that select meals can become negotiable, we are identifying with the reality of families living in our midst—our cities and neighborhoods—struggling between necessities like rent, diapers, utilities and daycare.
GRACE steps in to bridge the gap of needs in various ways, food being one of the pillars of our services.
Feed Our Kids was established to provide nutritious meals during the summer months to hundreds of children who receive free or reduced lunch from the school cafeteria. Support from the community allows us to provide over 37,000 meals each summer.
GRACE Grocery Giveaway was formed last year to bring a mobile food pantry to those same areas to utilize fresh produce and perishable food that was donated later in the week. This way, families receive nutritious food at the peak of freshness to enjoy over the weekend. Last year we were able to give over 12,000 bags filled with groceries to families.
These two programs are intentionally “uncomplex” and filled with purpose: to be there for local families by providing meals to their children and offering stability during an unstable time.
Our mission to give hope to families is a continual effort in every season and every day. Thank you for what you have given to invest in their futures, and thank you advance for partnering with us.
If you are interested in getting involved in Feed Our Kids, sponsorship opportunities are available to adopt a day or week of meals. You can also find open shifts here. Contact Lori Stevens for details.
If you would like more information on GRACE Grocery Giveaway, a volunteer sign up has been created here.
A Food Pantry Needs List is regularly updated on GRACE’s website to meet the real-time needs of families. If you or your group is interested in hosting a collection drive or meeting these needs, you can find them here. Contact Rusty Thigpen for further details.
