Dear Friends,

55% of the families served by LHR contain children under 18. For many of the neighbors we serve, the approach of summer brings extra food needs, as children no longer receive meals at school.

LHR is working to ensure that when school doors close, access to nutritious food does not. To help us prepare for the summer months, we are currently in need of donations of whole grain cereal and individually wrapped snacks. These items are especially helpful for families in need of easy, reliable options for their school aged children.

May is also a time to honor the caregivers who hold families together. If you are looking for a meaningful way to celebrate a mother or caregiver in your life, consider making a gift to LHR in her honor. It is a simple way to recognize her while helping another family put food on the table.

Please read through this newsletter for updates, upcoming opportunities, and ways to stay connected as we move into the summer months.

With gratitude,

The Loudoun Hunger Relief Team 🌷

Honor the Moms Who Give So Much

This Mother’s Day, celebrate the special women in your life by giving a gift that helps provide nourishment to families in need. You can make an "in honor" donation on LHR's website--see the how-to info below.

Your contribution helps families facing food insecurity have access to fresh, nutritious meals. With every dollar donated, we can provide essential groceries and support to those who need it most.

How to Make a Donation "In Honor Of"

When you make a donation "in honor of" someone, you have the option to put your honoree's name and email or mailing address in the dedication box. Check the box that asks us to send an acknowledgment. Your honoree will receive either a card or an email as you direct with your message included.

We Need Cereal and Snacks!

As the school year comes to a close, many families face added stress with kids home for the summer and fewer access points to regular meals. You can help us prepare by donating whole grain cereal and individually wrapped snacks. These are easy, kid-friendly options that make a big difference during the summer months.

As you’re shopping this month, consider adding an item or two to your cart or check out our Amazon Wishlist. Every donation helps keep nutritious food on our shelves.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Our LHR team took part in a Mental Health First Aid workshop hosted by the Loudoun County Department of Mental Health, Substance Abuse & Developmental Services and The Arc of Loudoun. The experience reinforced something we see every day, supporting our community means going beyond food.

We’re sharing a few takeaways from the training and how it’s shaping the way we show up for our neighbors.

Community Partner Corner

Thank you to these local businesses for their support of LHR in late February and throughout March. Their partnership and caring helps LHR make sure our neighbors have enough to eat.

The Fortessa Store for hosting Shop To Donate in April, a two week event with proceeds benefitting Loudoun Hunger Relief and other incredible nonprofits.

Hope Flower Farm and Winery for collecting donations for LHR at their Tulip Days Festival on April 11th and 12th!

Ashburn Village for donating proceeds from their Fiesta 5k, 10k, and Fun Run. What a fun way to bring the community together!

Loudoun County Public Library for hosting their annual food drive, running through May 10.

Come out to the Art of Tie Dye Festival & Free Next Wave Concert in Hillsboro and support Loudoun Hunger Relief! Enjoy tie dye workshops, live music from local student bands, food vendors, shopping, and more while helping provide food for neighbors across Loudoun County. Proceeds and donated nonperishable food items will benefit LHR.

Plant a Row For Those in Need!

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.

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 DAF's, IRA Direct Distributions, Beneficiary Designations, Gifts of Stock, and other ways to give. LHR is honored to accept bequests and other legacy gifts.