I received an email with this story attached today, and it stopped me in my tracks, and I wanted to share it with you:
I’ve worked with the Central Virginia Food Bank (aka Feedmore) for many years. One story from several years ago really stands out, and it goes something like this –
Richmond had been snowed in for 3 out of 4 weeks – schools here had been closed for a week straight.
When school opened a teacher asked the first student that came into her class how much she enjoyed being off for a week. According to the story, the child then said she was glad to be back because the last time she ate was when she was in school a week ago – this story still catches me off guard.
I told this story at a BackPack event Gayle and I attended earlier this week – now watch the dots connect
A lady came in to Pump this AM, Patty (my wife) and I happened to be at the counter – she introduced herself and asked if I was the one who told the story.
I said that I regularly lead in with that when I talk to folks about the Food Bank. She said, it’s my story – the little girl in question came in to my class at Oak Grove Elementary and literally said she was starving and needed food now, as she had not had any for eight days. The woman immediately got the child some food.
The woman then asked how we do what we do with radio spots, etc to share how much the Food Bank is really in need. After hearing how it worked, she asked if I’d tell the story louder and more often! How crazy is that?
Never lose the power of your voice, your message or your story – people do listen and it does matter.
It was from my friend, Mark Smith whom you’ve likely heard on the radio–and he’s really as nice a guy as he sounds. He will continue to share this story as he helps the Food Bank stock their shelves. That little girl and the teacher who took care of her made me realize how fortunate we are to have a pantry full of food and the true comfort of knowing that we can provide for our kids.
I illegally stole Mark's photo from Facebook, but hopefully he's ok with that. I think this guy deserves some recognition!
Last month, we raised funds for Feedmore at Wine Down Wednesday, and will continue to support their efforts–even more so because of stories like this.
If you’re able to, I hope that you will, too. Feedmore is always seeking adult and youth volunteers as well.
Mark often hosts food drives at his Richmond Midas locations, so you can even get a free oil change just by helping to feed a needy family.
