As we give thanks and gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, our hearts are filled with gratitude for our incredible community of supporters like you. Last year you helped more than 6,400 of your neighbors in need of food, shelter and safety. Thank you!
This season, we reflect on the meaningful difference we’ve collectively made, yet we recognize that the need has grown and we still need our community’s help:
- We saw a 65% increase in visits to our food and nutrition center last month, compared to last October.
- We responded to 384 calls to our domestic violence hotline last month, a 95% increase compared to last October.
This year, more than ever, our neighbors are in need.
A Glimpse into the Reality of Hunger
In a recent Union Tribune article, I highlighted the growing issue of hunger in our county, emphasizing that hunger isn’t just an economic problem; it’s a moral one. The heartbreaking reality is that hunger doesn’t discriminate, affecting children, families, and individuals from all walks of life.
The face of hunger is diverse and often hidden, affecting families who are employed but still struggling to make ends meet. In the op-ed piece, I shared the story of Joe and Simone, a hardworking family utilizing our food pantry to supplement their groceries. Their struggle, like many others, is fueled by rising costs of living, including groceries and gas, and unforeseen challenges.
Perhaps the most heart-wrenching aspect of hunger is the impact on children. In a country as wealthy and resourceful as ours, it is unfathomable that so many children go without adequate food.
Older adults, too, are not immune to the hardships of hunger. Fixed incomes often fall short, leading to a 40% increase in older adults seeking emergency food assistance this summer.
I am reaching out to you to share how we can collectively help our neighbors who are experiencing hunger, homelessness or domestic violence, through our Unwrap Hope campaign.
You Can Unwrap Hope
As we launch our Unwrap Hope campaign, we are counting on your support. Whether it’s providing a healthy meal, offering counseling for a child healing from domestic violence, or helping provide shelter for families experiencing homelessness, your generosity can truly unwrap brighter futures.
- A gift of $48 can help provide nutritious food for a child for a week.
- A gift of $247 can help provide counseling for a child to heal from domestic violence.
- A gift of $504 can help provide a night of shelter for 7 families experiencing homelessness.
Please give today to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those facing hunger, domestic violence and homelessness in our community. If you have already given, thank you! Please share this blog post with a friend who may want to support our cause.
Wishing you a season filled with hope, joy, and the warmth of community.
