May 10th, 2020

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     Today, on Mother’s Day, marks one month of Nobody Goes Hungry. So far, we have had three Friday giveaways, raised almost $3000 dollars through GoFundMe and direct donations, and partnered with many other local initiatives and organizations (such as Shielding Our Defenders and Greenfield’s Market). 

     When I started this program, I wanted to make an impact on other people’s lives in any way I could. Food and proper nutrition are fundamental necessities to staying healthy, and nobody should have to suffer because they can’t get the food they need by themselves, whether it is through monetary stress, inability to safely enter shops, or any other reasons. I hope that my efforts have provided some relief to those who need it. 

     What I didn’t realize at the start was how much of an impact this program would have on me. Primarily, I wanted to ensure that food was available to everyone, and taking a bag was not something to be ashamed of. I believe that it is this openness that has allowed me to have many conversations with those who have stopped by. More now than ever, I am seeing how “hungry” has no face. It is impossible to pin hunger to one situation or group of people. We all need help sometimes, and nobody should be embarrassed if that help is picking up a bag of nutritious food to keep them going throughout their days. So often there is a stigma around “hand-outs”, and I hope to break some of that by giving my bags directly, talking to the people that take them, and making them available without restrictions.

     Additionally, the outpour of support from the community has made me incredibly proud and touched. I never imagined how far this would reach, that I would receive donations from people I didn’t know but clearly care deeply for others. At last Friday’s giveaway, a man who stopped to pick up a bag asked to make a donation. He wanted to help in any way he could, and the few dollars that he left was as impactful as any larger sum. He was in need, but still looking out for the next person who came by. To the man, thank you. And to the woman who drove up and left an envelope with a donation, without a name or address where I could write you back, thank you. You went out of your way to lend support and you did it not because you wanted to be the one to give support, you did it because you wanted others to be supported. 

     Moving forwards, I hope that NGH can continue to help more people and reach a wider audience. On Friday, we dropped off additional bags at a community center for those who may not have been able to make the giveaway. Additionally, we have contacted various organizations to try to start delivering directly to homes of the elderly, for whom it is dangerous to venture outside at this time. If you have any ideas about further outreach, please contact NGH. We would love to hear from you.

     Again, thank you all for your support. Stay safe and best wishes,

     Juliette Lowe