Press release from MANNA FoodBank:
In a year of many “firsts” and “new norms,” there is one certainty: the compassion and care for our community continues to forge wonderful new partnerships.
This Saturday, one of those new friendships will make a tangible difference for many families struggling through this uncertainty by ensuring they have their food needs met. Through a partnership with the Bullard Family Foundation, Kimpton Hotel Arras, My Daddy Taught Me That (MDTMT), the Arthur R. Edington Education and Career Center, and MANNA FoodBank, Asheville-area families who need food will be able to pick up a robust holiday family food box and meet WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil aka. Thaddeus Ballard.
The need for food is great and continues to rise in Western North Carolina: MANNA and its partner network serve more than 100,000 people every month with emergency food support – up 77% from pre-pandemic averages.
This unique alliance with area businesses, nonprofits, and a high-profile celebrity shows that where there is the will to help, any individual or organization can get involved and make a difference right now, especially when the need for food across WNC is outpacing any in MANNA’s history.
“We are inspired by Thaddeus’ personal story and incredibly giving heart,” says Hannah Randall, Chief Executive Officer for MANNA FoodBank, “and are deeply thankful that his good friends in the greater Asheville area have helped make our community a new second home for Thad. This incredible community initiative will provide wonderful holiday meals to 500 families who are in great need of food and hope for today and for the future.”
“People believed in me and invested me when I was younger, which paved the path I am on today,” O’Neil said. “I give back as a way of repaying those who helped me; and I believe that we all have a responsibility to help our neighbors. Asheville is my second home. This is my community and I want to help our families grow and thrive.”
Any family needing food support is welcome and food boxes will be given out on a first come, first served basis. Please share this vital information with any family who might be in need of food.
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