Dear Friends,

As summer begins (despite all the rain trying to convince us otherwise) we’re thinking about growth, resilience, and community. This month, we’re sharing Angela’s story, a reminder of how rising costs continue to impact families across Loudoun.

At the same time, we’re also reminded of the power of small acts like planting an extra row in your garden. If you’re growing fruits or vegetables this season, please consider setting aside a portion to donate to LHR. Your backyard harvest can help put fresh, healthy food on a neighbor’s table.

And there's one more week of voting for Loudoun's Favorites at the Loudoun Now website- please vote for us!

And a quick note: Loudoun Hunger Relief will be closed July 4th–6th in observance of Independence Day.

The Team at LHR 🌟

Nominate us for Loudoun's Favorite Nonprofit/Community Organization!

Angela's Story

Even though her husband works in construction, after rent and bills, there just isn't enough money for enough food for this family of three to thrive. Angela comes here twice monthly to help supplement her young family's food budget. She explains how the rising food prices and costs of nearly everything are higher, but their take-home pay has stayed the same. Her infant is strapped into the car seat as Angela loads groceries from LHR telling us that she appreciates the fruits, vegetables, and milk she takes home from here today. Angela says, "It means a lot for us," and suggests that anyone in the same situation can rely on the quality food from LHR, "It's good food that this place provides for the people."

Plant a Row for LHR!

As you plan your vegetable garden this season, consider planting an extra row or a few additional plants to help neighbors in need. Your backyard bounty can go a long way in supporting our community. We gratefully accept fresh produce donations, every tomato, zucchini, and pepper helps!

Check our current donation hours at loudounhunger.org before you stop by.

Blooming with Purpose: $200K Raised!

Dedicated LHR volunteer Rachel Roberts has hit an extraordinary milestone this June. Her flower stand on Edwards Ferry Rd in Leesburg has raised funds for LHR since 2012.

This past week, Rachel’s Flower Stand crossed the $200,000 raised mark. Her efforts and the donations of countless people over more than a decade have yielded around 750,000 meals or more for those in need of food in our Loudoun community. Those who have followed Rachel’s efforts over the years know that the Flower Stand has had challenges like late frosts, hail storms, and a few years ago a hand injury that sidelined Rachel for a good bit of the summer.

Each challenge has made Rachel even more determined. Her help to those in need of food in our community is remarkable. She grows love in her garden alongside the flowers, and we are so grateful for the kindness her flower stand represents. Thank you, Rachel!

If you or someone you know needs additional human services like rent or utility assistance, please go to the Loudoun County Information & Referral website for more details or call 703-777-0420! For additional food resources, please visit Loudoun Feeds.

Are you planning your estate or portfolio giving?

Contact Trish McNeal to discuss options including IRA Rollover, Beneficiary Designations, Gifts of Stock, and other ways to give. LHR is honored to accept bequests and other legacy gifts.