Montgomery Area Food Bank

NEWSLETTER February - May 2018

The Heart of Alabama

Alabama Legal Food Frenzy Underway

Montgomery Area Food Bank (MAFB) is one of four Alabama members of the 200-member, nation-wide food bank network Feeding America®. Feeding America is the third largest charity in the nation. As a member MAFB enjoys access to national corporate support contracts, ranging from capacity grants to retail food sourcing, which are executed locally.While we feel we do a pretty good job of explaining the prevalence of hunger in Alabama, as well as the social costs of an issue as pervasive as hunger, we have to admit - one woman has taken the charge of raising awareness to another level. “It’s been absolutely amazing,” said Jess Kurti, who is nearing the completion of her “Beast of Burden Challenge” to visit and volunteer at every Feeding America food bank in the nation. “It’s really opened my eyes about hunger and the massive effort put forth by the Feeding America network. “That includes diverting viable food, which would end up in landfills…wasted,” added Kurti, “to people who need it.”Kurti’s challenge has taken years to accomplish! “It’s taken a while, because I still work,” explained Kurti. “I’ll work for 6-7 months and then get back on the road

and visit food banks.”Kurti said she was down to her last 15 food banks when

she visited MAFB, and is working her way toward Washington D.C. “I’m hoping to end this challenge by raising awareness in Washington,” said Kurti. “If I can do that, then maybe some of our nation’s leadership will realize they need to do more to provide assistance to people in need.”After visiting 185 food banks Kurti had some personal observances about food banking. “When I started, I was told, ‘when you visit one food bank…you’ve visited one food bank,’ meaning they’re all different,’” said Kurti. “I thought…OK, food banks can’t be THAT different. But, sure enough, they are ALL different.“That said; there are still similarities,” added Kurti. “Every food bank I’ve

visited has two similarities that stick out and give me hope. First; the people working here really have an obvious passion for what they’re doing…they care, and you can see it. “Second; there are people all across our nation who I’ve worked besides, who are volunteering their time to do something about hunger. That’s special.”

Challenge Accepted, Almost Complete

The Alabama Legal Food Frenzy sign-up was announced April 3, with a small gathering of staff and dignitaries just outside the Alabama Bar Association’s Montgomery, Ala headquarters. This year’s frenzy, which features friendly, yet spirited competition between Alabama’s law community, kicked off April 22 and runs through May 3“This friendly competition amongst lawyers and legal organizations to see who can raise the most funds and food taps into our competitive spirit.” said Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall during his brief remarks. “I think most of us like to win, right?

“Almost 400,000 children rely on free and reduced breakfast and lunch during the school year, added AG Marshall. “The timing of the Legal Food Frenzy targets the summer months, when those same children may not have access to assistance.” Montgomery Area Food Bank makes it easy for the legal community to participate. Lawyers, legal firms and even the general public wishing to donate, as well as show support for and ensure a specific firm receives a boost in the competition standings, can simply go to the following link: https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/mafbfoodfrenzy

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, kicks off the Fourth Annual Alabama Legal Food Frenzy.

Whatever the motivation we at MAFB are grateful and thankful that our volunteers enable our mission. As we speak to volunteers, we find their

Montgomery Area Food Bank - The Heart of Alabama Page 2

Montgomery Area Food Bank, Inc. Newsletter - The Heart of Alabama: Montgomery Area Food Bank (MAFB) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization, devoted to combating hunger and food insecurity in the state of Alabama. We connect low-income, at-risk Alabamians with food and resources to satisfy emergent hunger needs, as well as educational material targeting healthier outcomes and self-sufficiency. We are a member of the national network of food banks, Feeding America®. The Heart of Alabama is an OPT-IN, subscription publication. If you decide to OPT-OUT, just let us know via email, phone, or letter. It is possible you will receive a final edition - depending upon when you opt out and our publication date.

Chief Executive Officer Richard A. Deem Board of Directors, President Sarah H. Moore Chief Operating Officer David Fata Editor Al Bloom

From the TopBy: Richard A DeemMAFB Chief Executive OfficerEndeavoring to feed over 350,000 “food insecure” friends in 35 of Alabama’s 67 counties is a massive undertaking. It requires a full-time staff, a fleet of trucks, warehouses, fork lifts, freezers, coolers and over 800 agencies. Even with these resources, we would fall well short of our mission if it weren’t for a tremendous volunteer team.Volunteers are special to me. These are the people who show up to work not because they must, but because they want to. They bring with them an enthusiasm that is contagious. I have found that volunteers normally have a broad smile on their face and a great love for others in their heart. These volunteers come in all shapes, backgrounds, and ages. It appears to me that volunteerism is the fabric that unifies us all, because we all know someone who needs help.There’s an old saying that says “I’ve got more time than money”. I understand the sentiment of this adage;

however, I don’t know if it’s completely accurate. Here’s what I tell people: “You can always make more money, but you can’t make any more time”. Our time is precious and to share it with others in need is a tremendous gift.There was a well know man who coached football in the state of Alabama. He was known throughout the state and beyond by one word: Bear. He would often quote the following:“This is the beginning of a new day. You have been given this day to use as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes, this day will be gone forever; in its place is something that you have left behind…let it be something good.”I want to personally thank all the thousands of volunteers who have labored, often in obscurity and anonymity, to benefit their fellow man. Their names may not be mentioned in newspaper headlines or evening TV news, but what they have accomplished that day has made an impact on others’ lives. They have helped to shine a ray of hope into someone’s darkness. The volunteer may be tired from their efforts at the end of the day, but they can rest in the reality that their day was well spent.

Showing Appreciation of Volunteers’ ImportanceThere’s a hidden gem of an ideal which drives Montgomery Area Food Bank…volunteerism. Virtually every aspect of the MAFB mission is impacted by volunteerism in one way or another. Considering April is National Volunteer Month, we recently conducted the inaugural Volunteer Appreciation Day luncheon.“Our volunteers are investing something precious; something which is the most valuable thing they have…their time,” said MAFB Chief Executive Officer Richard A. Deem after leading the group in prayer prior to enjoying lunch. “They choose to spend their time, supporting our mission. And, I wanted to make sure all our volunteers know that everyone of us at Montgomery Area Food Bank recognizes, we couldn’t do what we do without them.”

Last Fiscal Year MAFB Volunteers spent more than 5,000 hours in the Volunteer Center. However, that total doesn’t include corporate support, operational hours of partner agencies - which are volunteer operated, and the countless Food & Fund Drives - many of which we don’t know about until they deliver the proceeds!“I wanted to do some type of charity work and I felt the food bank would be a good choice,” said Janice Snipes, explaining why she volunteers. “Montgomery Area Food Bank serves a lot of people in need, so I thought this would be a good organization to be a part of”“Well; I’m retired,” explained volunteer Annette Graves, “so I could either stay at home and do nothing, but this gives me the opportunity to use the time I have in a positive way…to help others.”

MAFB CEO Richard A, Deem leads a prayer during the inaugural Volunteer Apprciation Day.

Whatever those reasons are are we hope they feel appreciated and a sense of personal accomplish. “Yes; I do (feel as though she is accomplishing something good) with the small amount I do,” said Snipes with a laugh and radiant smile. “But, every little bit counts.”

motivations are usually very personal.

Montgomery Area Food Bank - The Heart of Alabama Page 3

Montgomery Area Food Bank’s network of member agencies are the backbone of all we do. Our mission is to nourish the hungry by educating and mobilizing the community, engaging in partnerships that advance self-sufficiency, and gathering then distributing assistance throughout 35 Alabama counties. Considering those counties span a service area of 24,921 sq. miles and we operate with a staff of 31, our network of partner distribution organizations and local member community agencies is vital to identifying and assisting Alabamians in need. This network structure has resulted in our distribution of more than 25 million pounds of assistance during each of the past two years. And yet, we are always welcoming more partner agencies to further our mission, because while we’ve been growing…we know we’re not done yet!To that end, we strive to:• Provide a wide variety of items, including shelf-stable foods, fresh produce, frozen and refrigerated foods and beverages, cleaning supplies, health and hygiene items and commodities. • Maintain donor relationships with food manufacturers, brokers, retailers and more bringing your

programs fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy, grains and proteins your clients need- all while saving you money. The only contribution you make is a Shared Handling Fee of no more than $.18 per pound on donated items, which covers our operating costs.• Transport, inspect and warehouse all food and non-food product with the highest standards. The Montgomery Area Food Bank adheres to regular inspections from Feeding America, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the American Institute of Baking, which provides third party food safety audits.• Offer a variety of programs targeting seniors, children and families.• Conduct an annual Agency Conference which allows sharing of best practices, enables collaboration between agencies and provides educational opportunities to strengthen our network. • Engage any 501 (c)(3) nonprofit incorporated for the purpose of assisting “the ill, the needy or infants or any entity that meets the IRS criteria to be considered a church.

Ever Thought of Becoming a Partner Agency?

Autagaville’s Inaugural Mobile Pantry Distribution

American author Napoleon Hill once said, “The starting point of all achievement is desire.” And so it was, for our new partner agency Be Active, Inc. when they conducted the inaugural Mobile Pantry delivery in Autaugaville the morning of April 15th - adjacent to the Autaugaville Head Start Center on Blossman Street. “I’ve always had a longing to come back home and work,” explained Be Active organizer Stephanie Bradley. “I wanted to work in rural areas as well, because that’s where I grew up. So, I talked with our Board and they said let’s do it! We decided upon Autagaville, because it’s close to home and in a rural area…not all of Autauga County is rural.”A Mobile Pantry distribution is a considerable undertaking requiring planning, volunteers and a great deal of effort– especially for a new agency. “Stephanie and I have known each other for more than 16 years,” explained Stephanie Paul of Paul Outreach, who began her association with Montgomery Area Food Bank (MAFB) when her father, Willie Paul, guided St. Stevens Baptist Church’s food assistance efforts (1995-2009) and even served on the MAFB Board of Directors. “She (Bradley) contacted me and asked about how we do our Mobile Pantries, so of course we helped her get ready and we’re here today, to help make sure everything goes well.”“We got in touch with the Montgomery Area Food Bank, which is a ‘God Send’,” added Bradley explaining the

preparation process further. “We had to go through registration and orientation to become a partner agency, and Miss Vicky (Vicky Manley, MAFB Agency Coordinator) was just great. We then got with the Mayor’s office, the police department and the teacher here at the Head Start Center, and they all thought this would be something great for the whole community.”“Both of my children go to this school,” said volunteer Amanda Terry. “We try to give back as much as we can, because we’ve been in this position (needing assistance) more than once. So, we always try to lend a helping hand and show our kids what’s right.”

By: Brooke SandersAgency Services Supervisor

Kedra Motley(L), and Amanda Terry joined with a group of volunteers from Be Active, Inc. to set-up and distribute more than 15,800 pounds of assistance during the innaugural Autaugaville Mobile Pantry.

home for everything donated to them. During the winter months they distribute coats, blankets, and heaters to those trying to beat the cold weather. Most of the winter items are donated, but some are purchased from the church funds. The non-food items throughout the year are moved as quickly as received to keep their location freed up for other activities of the church. A

Montgomery Area Food Bank - The Heart of Alabama Page 4

Local Community Partner Agency Sparkles

A great church, offering great programs that lend a hand to those struggling with life’s ups and downs. Holy Spirit Catholic Church is located on Vaughn Road in Montgomery, Ala.is that great church! Father Wayne Youngman leads this church which was established in 1978. Holy Spirit has been a very active partner agency since June 2016, and really helps in every way possible to get people back to a good place in life. Funding to run their many outreach programs is accomplished through church donations, with the greatest amount of their funds given through the St. Vincent De Paul Society. Church blessings and cooperation, along with a great group of volunteers, allows for execution of many programs to include regular food distributions to 30 neighborhood families monthly. On one day a month volunteers from Holy Spirit gather and prepare bags for delivery. Each volunteer has specific families to deliver bags to every month. This system allows the volunteers to know the families they deliver to and what needs they might have. They also build long-term relationships and show the love of God to their recipients.Their church on Vaughn Road helps an additional 30 families monthly. Those receiving assistance come from all walks of life -- from homeless to home-bound, with a large amount being seniors. The well-rounded mission programs at Holy Spirit not only offer food products, they also help pay utility bills, give cars, appliances, furniture (when these items are available). These items have even been delivered when needed. They turn no donation away, and always find a

By: Vicky ManleyAgency Program Coordinator

Our newsletter is named, “The Heart of Alabama,” not only due to our location, but as homage to the “Heart” our community continually displays in support of our mission. An amazing example is WSFA12 News, which has a long history of calling our community to action. Each year WSFA12 News conducts at least two Food and Fund Drives in support of the MAFB mission, and we are eternally grateful. “The Montgomery Area Food Bank provides services to almost 390,000 people in 35 counties in Alabama” noted Mark Bunting, Vice President and General Manager of WSFA12 News. “Unfortunately, the need for food never decreases and the extraordinary work of the food bank must continue. We at WSFA are

committed to this cause and will continue to do our part to help in eliminating hunger in Alabama.”Over the past two decades WSFA12 News has done more than “their part”. “WSFA is far more than a partner in our fight against hunger,” said Richard A. Deem, MAFB’s Chief Executive Officer. “They effectively call upon the community to reflect upon the plight of our neighbors in need. When WSFA conducts a Food and Fund Drive, which at this point have become part of our community’s fabric, or covers a milestone event on the news, they not only raise awareness of the need, but inspire the entire River Region to action.” “The Montgomery Area Food Bank relies on generous donations from

people and businesses throughout the River Region and that is where we at WSFA try to assist,” said Bunting. “We’re gearing up for this year’s Summer Fund and Food Drive at Renfroe’s Market on Chantilly along with Dixie Electric Cooperative, and I feel confident our viewers and the entire community will once again give generously to this wonderful organization.

WSFA12 News Summer Food & Fund Drive Set for June

Tricia White; and Gloria Worthington in the pantry.residence purchased by the

church that is on the adjacent property of the church houses their pantry. Two rooms of the residence house the pantry products. The other rooms are used for classes and church meetings as needed. There are several dedicated volunteers that keep the programs running smoothly. Tricia White, Gloria Worthington, Jane Noel, Peggy Jakes, Mary Conversino, and Nora Cammack work together to make things happen. They secure food from MAFB and load the pantry shelves before making bags for distribution. Each of these women have a passion to help and effortlessly execute the programs of the church. “I feel truly blessed to be able to help give someone a hand up,” said Tricia White. “We look for the face of God in those we serve and do what we are led to do,” added Gloria Worthington.We are so proud to have a partnership with Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Our partnership has allowed the church to distribute over 107,000 lbs. of food in the last year and a half. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for offering that helping hand. KUDOS for all you do!

MAFB’s Richard A. Deem interviewed on WSFA12 News in front of Renfroe’s Market.

Montgomery Area Food Bank - The Heart of Alabama Page 5

Kathy grew up poor. She knows firsthand what it was like as a child to go to bed hungry. Not as punishment because she’d done something wrong, but because there was no food in her home. She remembers hoping she would have food. She said her childhood experiences with hunger “motivated me to make a difference” and inspired her to find a way where she could try “to help ensure others have an easier existence than she experienced”. Kathy was first motivated to volunteer with MAFB after hearing about a Birmingham grandmother who was caught shoplifting food to feed the grandchildren that she was raising. The store manager had compassion and did not press charges. The police officer who arrived on scene had compassion and paid for the food. That story really struck a chord with Kathy and that began her search for a mission she could relate to - that of the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Kathy has been volunteering with the MAFB for 5 years now. When asked about the effects of volunteering

she says, “I always feel so fulfilled when I’ve finished a shift. Its such a good feeling when I’m done, and I don’t feel like I’ve wasted my time. So many people these days need help. I am making a difference in the community, and more importantly, in at least one person’s life.” She knows her efforts at MAFB ensure that as much as possible, viable, healthy, and nutritious food gets out to the community. Many skills, abilities, and qualities are needed by volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of the food bank, She knows the clerical work is as necessary as any other, but she prefers actually handling the food, personally ensuring what goes out will benefit our clients. She loves hearing the stories of our clients, but she also is inspired by the stories of our donors. She is “fascinated” by the huge donations that come in. She was recently impressed by a whole pallet of mangoes and avocadoes that she described “were in perfect condition! The huge amounts of food that are donated is inspiring”. In addition to ensuring the quality of the product MAFB distributes, Kathy is a staunch MAFB advocate! She shares her knowledge and

experiences - training the new groups that come in and mentoring to them. She passes her enthusiasm on to her teammates at work along with family and friends, inspiring them to volunteer as well. She shares that every time she volunteers, “it’s a surprise - it’s a new adventure”, and she “never knows what she’ll be doing next”. “For me, my volunteer experiences at the MAFB help me in my own job. It has helped me to develop team work, mentoring, and carries over to my personal responsibilities in my work space. Volunteering is an essential part of our society. It helps to better our community, but also betters us as people.”

few: The Wounded Warriors, Maxwell Air Force Base Officers, Publix and UPS groups, plus all the individuals who come in to help out. “The biggest benefit of volunteering at the MAFB is knowing that people are being fed.” She continues, “When you look at how desperate people are for food - its more real to you. I’ve seen a Mobile Pantry… the end results of much of the volunteer efforts. Actually meeting people, seeing the real need and seeing the end results puts real meaning into your efforts and tells me I am doing my part in helping.” To this day, Susan loves working with Teressa. “Teressa doesn’t push but inspires willing participation.” I’ve spent 20 years working in a police department. I’ve seen it all. Now I just want to give back any way I can. God has been good to me and I want to do what I can to make it better for others. In the future, Susan plans to be helping even more people - knowing her efforts have a direct effect of making a difference in the lives of others.

By: Jolene KearnsAdministrative Asst. to the CEO

MAFB Volunteer of the Year - Kathy Burr

MAFB Senior Volunteer of the Year - Susan GrantSusan had previously volunteered at another local non-profit, but it just didn’t click with her. She wanted to do something, but did not know what or where the something was. She really doesn’t remember what first brought her to the Montgomery Area Food Bank, but after her orientation she commented to our Volunteer Coordinator, Teressa Millwood, that she thought she’d be “more of a liability than an asset”. Physical limitations prohibited her from lifting much of anything. Not about to lose such a precious volunteer, Teressa responded, “Well then, you can be an ‘Office Angel.’” Ever since that day, for over 3 years now, Susan has been instrumental in the clerical tasks associated with food banking. Susan is a talker and does not know a stranger, so this made her the perfect person to assist in our Donor Development Program. One of her main duties is to call our donors and thank them for their support. Without our donors, MAFB would not be. Susan keeps a line of gratitude going from MAFB to them. Most are just so surprised at receiving the thank you call. These calls are important to let us know how we’re doing and to relay what the food bank does for folks. Susan especially loves the huge number of people she gets to meet in our Volunteer Department… just a

Susan Grant (R) with our Volunteer Coordinator, Teressa Millwood, MAFB Senior VOY two years in-a-row.

Kathy Burr (L), with our Volunteer Coordinator, Teressa Millwood, MAFB VOY two years in-a-row.

NONPROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE PAIDMontgomery, ALPermit No. 331

The Heart of Alabama Montgomery Area Food Bank521 Trade Center StreetMontgomery, AL 36108-2107(334)263-3784www.MontgomeryAreaFoodBank.org

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Summ

er Fun

Let’s do Lunchcan be a challenge

for children counting on their

School Lunch Program

ww

w.Montgom

eryAreaFoodBank.org

334.263.3784