With Thanksgiving and the holiday season around the corner, and with many in our region feeling the effects of the federal government shutdown, furloughs, and layoffs, I’m struck by the ways I see our community coming together to support each other, including the continued generosity of those who provide support to the clients of Food & Friends.
Your incredible generosity and volunteerism made it possible for Food & Friends to deliver 2.2 million medically tailored meals to more than 6,200 individuals living with life-challenging illnesses over the last year. I am deeply grateful. Your compassion has touched every corner of our community, and I know our clients share my deep gratitude for your support.
Just last month alone, with your help, our staff and volunteers prepared and delivered 181,809 medically tailored meals to 2,995 individuals throughout the region, including 762 dependents and caregivers. This is 13% more meals and 350 more clients than we served in September 2024.
This shows that the need for our services has never been greater. Your support during this tumultuous time and throughout the holidays will help us continue to respond to the rising need, just as we have for nearly four decades. Your time volunteering can make that impact even deeper.
This holiday season, please consider volunteering with us on Thanksgiving Day or in December. We count on your partnership and your volunteer donations to support our mission. Together, we are neighbors helping neighbors.
On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, and clients, thank you for being part of our community.