Dear Manna,

Celebrate Young Changemakers:

Make an Honorary Gift Today! 

As we wrap up the year, we're in awe of the incredible work our young supporters have done to fight hunger in Montgomery County. Let us share an inspiring story that showcases the power of youth in action:

Gloria, 18, has been leading a club at her high school dedicated to fighting hunger for two years. She shared

"I used to live in a community where a lot of my friends and classmates depended on food support programs. After moving to a new area, I noticed that people didn't seem as aware of food insecurity, and it felt like there wasn't as much focus on it.

Wanting to make a difference, I joined [this club] during my freshman year and have been president for the past two years. In that time, we've packed weekend food bags for local elementary schools and my school. I decided to volunteer with Manna [during] my senior year because I admired their work with MoCo schools. I've since realized that they do so much more than just provide food. Manna supports people through education, advocacy, and a variety of programs that make a real difference.

Beyond that, they have an amazing community of staff members who are passionate, welcoming, and deeply committed to their mission. I care about ending hunger because food is a basic human right, and no one should have to struggle to get something as essential as food. Everyone deserves access to nutritious meals, and Manna is helping make that happen in our community. "

Gloria's story is one great example of the youth-led initiatives making a difference in our community- and she’s not alone!  

This holiday season, we're asking you to join these inspiring young people and take action. A year-end donation to Manna Food Center will help us continue providing nutritious food to families, support our expanding school programs, and set us up for success in the new year. Here's how you can help: 

1. Make a donation before December 31st 
2. Consider setting up a monthly donation for sustained impact 
3. Honor a Young Changemaker with Your Gift 

Consider making your donation in honor of a young person who inspires you. It's a meaningful way to recognize their efforts while supporting our cause.

Here's how: 

1. Make a donation in honor of your chosen young changemaker 
2. We'll send a beautiful custom certificate to the honoree, sharing the impact of the gift made in their name*** (by request) 



***To request a custom certificate with your donation, contact Carrie Dell at carrie@mannafood.org.  

Your gift, no matter the size, will make a real difference in our community. Let's follow the example set by our youth and ensure that all of our neighbors have access to healthy food in welcoming spaces. If you have already given, thank you so much for being part of our Manna family!  

Warmly,

Jackie DeCarlo 

CEO, Manna Food Center