If you’ve ever walked through Produce on a Thursday, you’ve likely felt it—the laughter, the light conversation, the sense that you’re not just receiving food, you’re being seen.

That’s Chuck Myers.

For the past two years, Chuck has faithfully served in the produce tent every Thursday after first hearing about Twin Lakes Food Bank from his friend and fellow volunteer, Bill Reed. What started as an invitation from a friend, quickly became something much deeper—a passion to connect and meet guests right where they are, in their most vulnerable circumstance. And that matters more than most people realize.

Coming to a food bank is not easy. It takes humility; it can feel vulnerable but Chuck finds a way to break down walls and makes people laugh. He listens to the guests, remembers details and creates space for guests to share their stories. Chuck doesn’t just hand out produce—he offers dignity, respect, and friendship.

Chuck says he appreciates how many guests express gratitude. But the truth is, we are grateful for him.

One conversation in particular left a mark on Chuck’s heart. He met a refugee who had supported U.S. troops overseas. Because of that support, the man had to flee his home, bringing twelve family members with him. Twelve mouths to feed. Twelve lives depending on him. The man who once helped our country is now simply trying to survive and provide for his family.

That story stayed with Chuck.

His time at TLFB has “sensitized him to the real-world struggles of others,” he says. What used to be statistics are now names, faces, families, grandparents, parents, and children.

Before retiring from a career in higher education sales and sales management, Chuck spent years building relationships. And even in retirement—between golf games, fishing trips, travels, volunteering at his local church, and especially time with his three granddaughters—he is still building them.

Every Thursday, rain or shine.

When asked what he wishes people knew about Twin Lakes Food Bank, his answer is simple: “How much good is accomplished there on a daily basis.”

We see that good in the pounds of produce distributed. We see it in the numbers served. But we also see it in moments—like a guest walking away smiling because someone took time to truly see them.

Chuck loves all his guest interactions. And that’s the thing about him—he means it.

Because for Chuck, this isn’t just about food. It’s about making sure others are loved and cared for.

If you stop by the food bank on a Monday morning, you’ll likely spot Tim Hughes before you even step inside. He’s the one unloading crates of fresh donations, smiling as he weighs, sorts, and organizes the generous contributions from our five grocery partners. For the past two years, Tim has quietly become one of the heartbeat volunteers in Monday Operations—dependable, thoughtful, and always willing to jump in wherever he’s needed.

Tim first discovered Twin Lakes Food Bank through his former employer, Micron, where volunteering together was part of the culture. When he retired, he brought that spirit with him. “I really like the energy of the site and team,” he shared—and if you’ve met Tim, you know he adds to that energy in the best way.

Before joining us, Tim volunteered at Loaves & Fishes and the Orangevale Food Bank. Each place offered something different, but here at TLFB, he’s found a unique sense of purpose. Along with his operations work, Tim has also stepped into supporting our capital campaign, helping connect with local companies—another way he’s helping build a stronger future for our neighbors.

 

Even though his volunteer role doesn’t often put him face-to-face with guests, Tim feels a deep connection to our mission. Touring guests through the garden—especially in the peak of summer—has become one of his favorite experiences. “Seeing people’s eyes light up when they walk through the garden…it’s such a gift TLFB has,” he says. Those small moments remind him why this work matters—and how every role, even behind the scenes, touches lives.

His time with us has also widened his view of hunger. Seeing the impact in our own neighborhood has made him more aware of food insecurity across the globe. “Clearly TLFB is making a difference,” Tim reflects. “It makes me much more aware of the food needs globally.”

Outside the food bank, Tim’s world is full and joyful—cycling, skiing, golfing, spending time with his grandbabies, and staying connected at St. Joseph Marello Church. But no matter how he spends his time, his heart for service shows up everywhere he goes.

When asked what he wished more people knew about TLFB, his answer was simple:
“Don’t be intimidated if you’re in need of food. The people are great, you will enjoy the experience—and of course, the food.”

Tim is the kind of volunteer who quietly lifts an entire organization—faithful, generous, steady. His story is a reminder that every hour given, every pound of food sorted, every relationship built adds up to something powerful.

And because of volunteers like Tim, hope keeps showing up—every single week.

If you’ve ever stepped into the bagging area on a Thursday, you’ve probably felt the warm, joyful energy that Robyne brings to Twin Lakes Food Bank. For 15 incredible years, Robyne and her husband, Joe, have been serving side by side—proof that when two people follow a calling together, amazing things can happen.

Robyne first discovered TLFB at the Folsom Expo, where a simple booth sparked a journey that would become a cornerstone of her life. Encouraged by Rosanne, she and Joe came to “check it out”… and they never left. Today, they’re a powerhouse volunteer duo faithfully showing up every Thursday to make sure guests receive food with dignity and kindness.

For Robyne, the heart of volunteering is found in those meaningful interactions—especially when a first-time guest arrives feeling embarrassed or unsure. She loves watching the team wrap them in warmth, help them feel seen, and remind them that coming for help is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s inspiring, humbling, and at times challenging—especially when food runs low. But Robyne’s compassion never runs out.

Her time at TLFB has reshaped how she sees the world. “Hunger has no zip code, no social economic class, no race or culture. Hunger can be hidden so well that we need to look closely, sometimes right in our own neighborhood,” she says. That awareness fuels her passion to serve without judgment and without hesitation.

 Outside the food bank, Robyne joyfully calls herself a professional weekender, filling her life with traveling, hiking, wine tasting, floral design, and anything that involves sand between her toes. She also volunteers with The Petal Connection in Roseville, sharing beauty and kindness wherever she goes.

And if you really want to see her light up? Ask her about her kids and grandchildren. Robyne visits them as often as she possibly can—and just talking about them brings a whole new glow to her smile.

When asked what she wishes everyone knew about TLFB, Robyne keeps it simple and powerful:
“That we are here to serve—no questions asked.”

Robyne, thank you for your heart, your energy, and your 15 years of unwavering commitment. TLFB is brighter because of you! 

This year, Thanksgiving feels different.

Every November, as I set my own table—laden with dishes I’ve made for years—I rarely stop to consider where it all comes from. The grocery runs, the traditions, the bustle of cooking, the football games, the parades… it can all feel ordinary. Familiar. Expected.

But over the past month, as our team prepared for our annual Turkey & Trimmings giveaway, that perspective shifted. I’ve been reminded, again and again, that for many in our community, this holiday brings something entirely different.

For a veteran, it can be a day marked by loneliness.
For a parent, a reminder of what they desperately wish they could provide.
For families facing food insecurity, it can stir the anxiety of not knowing where the next meal will come from.

And yet—this year—something extraordinary happened.

Our community showed up in a way that left us overwhelmed with gratitude. Churches, businesses, service clubs, and local organizations rallied together, pouring in support, donations, and love. Because of their generosity, we were able to provide over 425 full Thanksgiving meals to families in need—up nearly 20% from previous years. Last year we served 335. This year, the need grew—and the community met that need with open hearts and outstretched hands.

More Than Thanksgiving Meals

When guests arrived, they were greeted not just with boxes of fresh produce, turkeys, desserts, sides, and all the trimmings—they were greeted with joy. For three days volunteers donned turkey hats, festive aprons, and big smiles. They welcomed each family warmly, walked with them, loaded cars, offered hugs, and shared in the moment. It was a 360-degree act of service: joyful, compassionate, and deeply human.

And the response… the response is what will stay with us.

There were hugs that lingered.
Tears of relief that fell quietly.
Kids bouncing with excitement as they saw the food being loaded.
Parents whispering, “Thank you… you don’t know what this means.”

One mother cried when she learned she would also receive a Safeway gift card—something that allowed her to pick up a special item she otherwise could not afford. We’ve all had moments when the weight of the world feels too heavy to carry, and then someone steps in with unexpected kindness. For her, that small act was everything.

Another guest—one who had registered to receive a meal—reached out during the CalFresh benefit cuts earlier this fall. He told us, “I think there’s a family who needs my meal more. Could you give it to them instead?” Even in his own uncertainty, he chose generosity.

This is what real community looks like.

A Community That Cares

To everyone who made this year’s Turkey & Trimmings giveaway possible: thank you. You brought hope to tables across Folsom. You reminded families that they are not alone. And you reminded all of us that giving is not just about what we offer—it’s about how deeply we choose to care.

With full hearts and deep gratitude, we want to recognize and thank the organizations who donated time, money, volunteers, and food to make this giveaway possible:

Lakeside Church
Bayside Church of Folsom
Safeway
Harbor Church
Folsom Lake Rotary
Folsom Kiwanis
Folsom High ACCT

Micron
Inductive Automation
Rehya Dance
Folsom Lions Club
Community Bible Church
Journey Church
Trinity Episcopal Church

Columbia Bank
Rotary Club of Folsom
Rotary Club of Historic Folsom
Folsom Lake Rotary
Diamond Glenn
Folsom Prison
Tricks Gymnastics

Thank you for helping us feed hope this Thanksgiving. You made a difference—and you reminded us all what the holiday is truly about.

Article By: Rachel Hill 

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Photos from the our week of Turkey & Trimmings

A Night to Remember

Our Community Shines Bright at a Starry Night Gala

 On Saturday, November 8, under a canopy of twinkling lights and endless community spirit, the Twin Lakes Food Bank’s Starry Night Gala reminded us all what happens when generosity and joy come together for a purpose.

 Nearly 300 guests and over 50 volunteers filled the room with laughter, compassion, and a shared commitment to feeding hope in Folsom and beyond. The atmosphere was nothing short of magical—warm, radiant, and full of connection. From the first welcoming smile to the last song of the night, the energy was electric. Guests arrived dressed to impress, ready not only to celebrate but to make a difference. And they did just that.

Together, our incredible supporters raised $288,000 through the Gala and Live Auction combined—the most ever raised in the history of the Twin Lakes Food Bank Gala! This record-breaking achievement will help us meet the growing and urgent needs of our neighbors throughout the year ahead.

Joy, Laughter, and Giving from the Heart

 The night was filled with unforgettable moments—heartfelt stories that moved us to tears, friendly bidding battles that had us cheering, and a performance by Groove Therapy that kept everyone dancing well into the evening.

The live auction, led by the energetic Freddie Silveria and Ian Cornell, was a whirlwind of excitement, raising more than $49,000 on its own! When eight handcrafted garden-inspired cocktails hit the auction block—each mixed with fruit and herbs fresh from our own food bank garden—the room erupted with friendly competition. Those creative drinks alone raised another $3,000!

Guests laughed through the Lucky Card Draw, sprinted during the Dessert Dash (raising $22,000 for those sweet treats!), and opened their hearts wide during Fund-A-Need, which brought in an incredible $96,000 to nourish our neighbors.

United by Compassion

Before dinner, Executive Director Lisa Tuter captured the spirit of the evening perfectly:

“In a time of deep division and distrust in our world, there are nearly 300 people in this room with diverse cultural, political, and religious experiences standing united with the shared belief that access to nutritious food is not a privilege—it’s a right for all humanity.”

And that unity shone brighter than any star in the room.

Board President Ron Perry added,

“Our investment tonight has an immediate return. Guests will receive nourishing food this very next week to meet their immediate needs in these uncertain times—food given in a manner that gives them dignity and hope.”

Coming Together in Challenging Times

Right now, our community—and communities across California—are feeling the ripple effects of the temporary hold on CalFresh and SNAP benefits. Each week, we’re seeing more families turning to us for help. It’s truly unprecedented.

But on this night, as we looked around the beautifully lit room, what we saw was hope. Hope reflected in every guest, sponsor, volunteer, and donor who chose to stand with us. This Gala, paired with the incredible outpouring of local food drives and food donations pouring into the food bank, reminds us that even in uncertain times, the spirit of compassion is stronger than ever. As we move into the busy holiday season, we remain both humbled and inspired. The need is growing, but thanks to our compassionate community, so is the hope. Between the Gala’s record-breaking success and the incredible outpouring of food donations from local drives, we’re confident that together, we can continue to meet the rising demand.

To everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, danced, or cheered—thank you. You are the light that makes nights like this possible.

You Can Still Help

Keep the Light Shining & Join the Movement Today

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DONATE MONTHLY

HOST A FOOD DRIVE

MAKE A YEAR END GIFT

***(Already a monthly donor? Check with your employer to see if they have a Matching gift program and double your impact!)

Donate Today!

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Photos from the Starry Night Gala 2025

When Krista May moved to Folsom three years ago, she was looking for more than just a new address—she was looking for connection. “I wanted to meet people and feel like a part of my new community,” Krista recalls. A quick search for volunteer opportunities led her straight to Twin Lakes Food Bank (TLFB), and the rest, as they say, is history.

Every week, you’ll find Krista at the Registration desk, greeting both new guests and familiar faces with warmth and humor. “I call them friends,” she says. It’s a role that allows her to connect, share moments, and leave people feeling seen and valued—even on their hardest days. “I am consistently humbled by the number of guests who are experiencing their worst days, yet making me smile. They are grateful, they joke around, they share recipes, and leave us volunteers better than they found us.”

*Krista with guest and volunteer

Krista’s journey into volunteering mirrors her professional path. As a full-time headshot photographer and studio owner in Folsom, she knows what it means to help others feel comfortable, confident, and even joyful in a vulnerable moment. “Clients often walk into my studio feeling nervous, but nearly every time, they leave saying, ‘That was more fun than I expected!’ I like to think we leave that same impact on the guests at the food bank,” she reflects.

Volunteering at TLFB has also reshaped Krista’s view of the world. She has learned the power of meeting people exactly where they are, embracing their unique stories without expectation. “It’s a grounding and humbling experience to know I’m in a position to affect someone’s day for the better, no matter their starting point,” she says.

Outside of the food bank, Krista is a creative spirit and adventurer at heart. She loves baking and cake decorating, painting with watercolors, paddleboarding, stargazing through her telescope—and yes, finally living out a longtime dream by zipping around town in her Mini Cooper Roadster, top down, music blasting, and a grin on her face.

Above all, Krista wants everyone to know that TLFB is here for the community. “You don’t have to be on the brink of disaster to ask for help. We will support you in the times you need us, and be here waiting in the times you don’t.”

Krista May’s story is a shining example of how one person’s desire to connect and serve can ripple out, creating joy, comfort, and community for countless others.

To learn more about how you can serve the food bank like Krista, visit our website here: https://twinlakesfoodbank.org/volunteer/

Filling Hearts & Shelves

FOLSOM COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY 2025 

This past weekend, we were reminded once again of the extraordinary heart of our Folsom community. On Community Service Day, hundreds of volunteers came together with one shared mission: to make sure our hungry neighbors know they are not forgotten. 

From the very beginning of the day, we could feel the energy and excitement. At a brand-new garden site donated by Oak Hills Church, we stood side by side with Garden Coordinator Michelle Kwek and a team of volunteers, breaking new ground and preparing soil for planting. It wasn’t just about turning over dirt—it was about planting hope, about making sure that fresh, healthy food will be available to nourish families in the months ahead. 

Meanwhile, across town, another group of volunteers sprang into action. Led by Mark Behouth from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, teams fanned out across Folsom to collect food donations. One by one, families left bags of groceries on their doorsteps, and one by one, those bags were picked up and delivered to Mt. Olive Lutheran Church. There, volunteers led by Dr. Anthony Retodo of Kaiser Permanente and our very own Operations Manager, Elizabeth Martin, worked tirelessly to receive, sort, and prepare the donations for families who will need them. 

When we gathered at the warehouse later that day, our hearts swelled. What had been an empty space just days before was suddenly filled with row after row of canned goods, boxes, and nonperishables—all reminders of a community that cares deeply. As our Inventory Coordinator, Mark Hockaday, said, “It was an incredible sight to watch our empty warehouse fill back up. Every single item represented hope for a family in need.” 

In total, the food collected will provide the equivalent of 38,000 meals over the next five months. That number is more than just statistics to us—it’s children going to bed with full stomachs, parents finding relief in knowing they can put dinner on the table, and seniors no longer having to choose between paying bills and buying groceries. 

We are deeply grateful. Grateful for every volunteer who showed up, every donor who filled a bag of food, every leader who gave their time and energy, and every partner who helped make this day possible. Together, we are building a stronger, kinder community—one where no neighbor is left behind. 

But as we celebrate, we also know our work is not finished. The need in our community continues to grow, and hunger doesn’t end after one day of service. That’s why we’re still accepting food donations and inviting anyone who feels moved to help to join us. Whether it’s hosting a food drive through your school, business, or neighborhood, or simply dropping off a few extra groceries, every action makes a difference. 

This is our community. These are our neighbors. And together, with open hands and open hearts, we can make sure no table goes empty. 

If you’d like to be part of this ongoing effort, you can learn more at https://twinlakesfoodbank.org/donate-food/  or by emailing us at info@twinlakesfoodbank.org . 

• Staff & Partners
• Food Drive
• Garden Project