Setting The Table: Ensuring Enough Food for Every Plate

Imagine a table, not just any table, but one that extends far beyond the walls of any home. It stretches across our 16-county service area and the Qualla Boundary, reaching out to our neighbors, friends, and countless others. This is the table of community, compassion, and care — a table where there is a place for everyone and food for all. 

At MANNA FoodBank, we believe in the power of this table, and we see the incredible difference it makes. Every day, individuals and families come to us, each with their own story of their unique lived experiences that have brought them to our door. The ever-widening gap between the cost of living and income across our beautiful region has pushed many to the brink, and the need for assistance has reached record levels. To put that in perspective, as we reflect upon our 23/24 fiscal year that closed on June 30th, we are serving an average of 158,000+ every month which is an astounding historical increase with no end in sight. 

As a result, we continue to find it necessary to purchase more food than ever to meet the growing need. Simultaneously, our incredible Food Sourcing Team is working extremely hard daily to continue to increase the amount of donated food that we receive by growing our relationships with large and small retail stores, local and regional farmers and alongside our sister food banks to trade and share one another’s produce supplies.  

Our unwavering efforts to secure more donated food will continue, however, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. As we intensify our search for donated food, we must rely upon the kindness and compassion of our close friends like you to help fill plates today, tomorrow, and next week.

Even amidst these unprecedented challenges, here is the truth that empowers us: Hunger is a problem we can solve together. Your generosity transforms into meals for working families trying desperately to make ends meet, and for the senior who has given a lifetime of hard work yet cannot stretch their fixed income to cover both utilities and groceries. 

Together, we can ensure that no one is turned away from the table, that every plate is full, and that hope is served in generous portions. 

With heartfelt gratitude, 
Your MANNA Family