FROM LISA'S HEART

Even in the Hardest Times, Kindness Transforms

The mass shooting at a Catholic school in Minnesota this week was horrifying; that one person engaged in one act of evil could devastate and traumatize so many children, is incomprehensible. While the grief is raw, acts of kindness and compassion are already beginning to help students and their families begin to cope and heal.

When I feel helpless during these hard stories, I remind myself of the good stories, in my own community, at the food bank where a simple act of kindness can transform a person’s mood, even a life. Choosing kindness is worthy of sharing and is contagious. As you read on, you’ll see how the ripple effect of kindness can show up as spurring others toward generosity, igniting compassion, and even offering joy.

BUILDING COMMUNITY

A Single Act of Goodwill, Multiplied

While our warehouse is nearly empty of canned and boxed goods, the hearts in our community are full of goodwill. As we have shared that our shelves are bare and the number of families we serve have reached record highs, individuals and small groups are stepping up to host food drives to fill the gap until Folsom’s Community Service Day on September 20. We want you to be a part of this community wide endeavor and encourage your friends, coworkers and neighbors to do the same. Then what began as a single act of kindness, multiplies, and food donations will exceed our wildest imagination to provide hope and nourishment for hundreds of families.

So, join your neighbors in Folsom by placing a filled bag of groceries on your curb on Saturday, September 20. On behalf of our food-insecure families, we thank you in advance. Read our blog to learn more.

FIGHTING HUNGER

One Small Gift and Immeasurable Joy

Not long ago, a young boy named Billy came into the food bank with his aunt for groceries.

Billy’s heart was heavy—he wanted to make his little sister’s birthday special, but there was no way they could afford a cake. Quietly, his aunt shared with one of our volunteers that the children’s mother wasn’t planning to celebrate, and that Billy was heartbroken. Moved with compassion, the volunteer knelt beside Billy and told him he could pick out any cake he wanted for his sister. The change in his demeanor was priceless.

When Billy spotted a chocolate cake, his eyes lit up—he couldn’t wait to surprise his sister and celebrate her in a way most of us take for granted. Although he had little, his desire to give reminds us that kindness is contagious, and even the smallest gift can ignite immeasurable joy.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

A Guest Gives Back

Our Back 2 School Extravaganza was a day where hundreds of children received backpacks, school supplies, and groceries to start the school year prepared and confident. Families left with arms full, but more importantly, with hearts lifted.

In the middle of the excitement, a guest pulled a staff member aside, sharing that he had been moved by the love and care shown to his children and wanted to give something back. He revealed that he’s actually a professional Spider-Man, performing at local events and parties, and that his costume was waiting in his car. Minutes later, Spider-Man swung into action, the kids went wild—cheering, laughing, and dancing as Spider-Man faced off in unforgettable dance battles with the Chick-fil-A Cow.

It’s not often we see guests step in to serve, but this guest’s decision to give back created a ripple effect of joy that touched everyone he came into contact with.

A New Vision

Learn more about the campaign and how you can help by emailing us at buildinghope@twinlakesfoodbank.org or click below to get involved today!

Save the Date

Get ready for a fun and meaningful evening with a delicious dinner, great live auction items and good company for a great cause. Ticket sales opens soon. Stay tuned!