Our December Blog is arriving early this month in honor of Giving Tuesday, with a message about feeding Western North Carolina with MANNA FoodBank.
We learned about MANNA through Tanya Dalton, our founder and a resident of the Asheville area. She says that even though running water has been restored in her neighborhood, it's still not drinkable and may not be until January 2025. MANNA and their team of volunteers are getting clean bottled water to everyone who needs it, and in Asheville, that's everyone.
"MANNA FoodBank is a local charity that has been out tirelessly making sure that there is food and water for everyone--they are a fantastic organization that I know is making a difference in our area," she said.
As the western region of North Carolina rebuilds after Hurricane Helene, MANNA FoodBank is working to ensure that no one goes hungry. MANNA was there before local and federal aid workers arrived in September, and they're there now - with food and water for families, first responders, and anyone who needs it.
If you've ever lived through a natural disaster, you know that just because the news cameras have moved on, the stress, hard work, and challenges of daily life continue for residents.
Their mission says it all: "Our food programs and public policy efforts aim to build a society where everyone can thrive—celebrating our differences and working together to overcome injustices that might divide us… because no one should be hungry."
In honor of Thanksgiving, we chose to donate to MANNA and fund food and supplies for those who need it most during the holiday season in Asheville, N.C.
The impact of food insecurity can be far-reaching, affecting not only an individual's physical health but also their mental well-being, educational outcomes, and overall quality of life. Families forced to make difficult choices between paying for food or other essential expenses, such as rent, utilities, or medical care, often find themselves in a vicious cycle of poverty and instability.
MANNA FoodBank's approach to addressing food insecurity is multifaceted and comprehensive, utilizing various programs and initiatives to reach those in need. Through their network of partner agencies, MANNA distributes food to food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other community organizations throughout the 16 counties they serve. This ensures that the food reaches the people who need it most, often in the communities where they live. MANNA also collaborates with local healthcare providers to address the intersection of food insecurity and health.
If the work of MANNA FoodBank inspires you and you want to get involved, there are several ways you can lend your support:
Monetary Donations
One of the most impactful ways to support MANNA FoodBank is through monetary donations. These funds allow the organization to purchase essential food items, cover operational costs, and expand its programs and initiatives.
Food Donations
MANNA FoodBank also accepts food donations from individuals and businesses. They are always in need of non-perishable items, such as canned goods, cereals, and rice, as well as fresh produce and protein-rich foods.
Volunteer Opportunities
MANNA FoodBank relies heavily on the support of volunteers to sort, package, and distribute food to their partner agencies. By volunteering your time, you can directly ensure that the food reaches those who need it most.
Advocacy and Awareness
You can also support MANNA FoodBank by becoming an advocate for their cause. Spread the word about their work, attend their educational events, and engage with local policymakers to advocate for policies and programs that address food insecurity in the region.
Join us in celebrating the inspiring work of MANNA FoodBank and consider how you can support this remarkable cause.
MANNA FoodBank is a Four Star Charity, a member of Feeding America and Feeding the Carolinas.
Donate here: https://donate.mannafoodbank.org/
"It means so much to us that all of you at Blue Sky have been so supportive of us and our community. I can't even put into words how much I appreciate it." – Tanya Dalton
