Filling Hearts & Shelves

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 .