Food banks are often the lifeline of a community. Thankfully, some incredible organizations and volunteers in our community are eager to help.
Joseph’s Storehouse - loaejosephsstorehouse.org
The “Home of the Big Yellow Wheelbarrow” assists more than 600 families per month, the most they’ve ever served in 23 years of operating. This equates to over $100,000 in food, toiletries, and household items. Supplies have been limited due to increased demand, but they continue to support the elderly, disabled, and single-parent families. Volunteers keep costs low while monetary support goes towards transportation costs and utilities for freezers and coolers.
Wilson County Help Center - wilsoncountyhelpcenter.org
This local 501(c)3 interacts with more residents than any other agency in the county. Last year, they provided over 18,000 meals and almost 40,000 items of clothing. Thanks to generous donors, they can also meet urgent utility needs of over $50,000. Services have now expanded to include prescription assistance for the elderly and Ensure supplementation for those battling cancer.
SALT – salt-ministry.org
SALT is a non-profit organization that began in 2014 after learning that many seniors frequently must choose between food, medicine, and utilities. Transportation is also a concern that limits access to these necessities. SALT became the solution and delivers food twice per month to over 190 households. Volunteers on delivery teams get the added bonus of chatting with the lovely seniors on their route.
Friendship Food Bank - achurchforyou.com/food-bank
Friendship Community Church is a “client choice” food bank meaning those in need can freely select the types of food items their family will enjoy. Resources are not limited based on zip code and are open to anyone with insufficient food availability. This Old Hickory location offers daytime and evening shopping hours; volunteer opportunities are available.
Mt. Juliet Help Center - mtjuliethelpcenter.org
The Mt. Juliet Help Center recently opened its newly remodeled lobby to serve residents in need. Households can receive groceries and toiletries 12 times yearly with proof of address. They also offer assistance with past-due utility bills. The center keeps donors informed by posting a weekly list of depleted items which can be dropped off in person or via the Second Harvest barrels located at Kroger.