Nourishing Minds...
Dear Supporters of Toco Hills Community Alliance,
As spring unfolds with its vibrant colors, we take time this May that is Mental Health Awareness Month to reflect not only on the nourishment of the body, but also on the nurturing of the mind. We understand that hunger is not just a physical state; it weighs heavily on the mind as well.
In fact, the relationship between food insecurity and mental health goes both ways. Those with mental illness are more likely to experience food insecurity and those with food insecurity are more likely to experience adverse effects on their mental health. The uncertainty of where the next meal will come from, the stress of stretching limited resources, and the feelings of shame and inadequacy can weigh heavily on mental health. One study found that food insecurity is associated with a 257% higher risk of anxiety and a 253% higher risk of depression!
We also know that the food we eat has a direct impact on our mood as well. A poor diet during periods of stress and depression only makes matters worse. This cycle is a vicious one, but it can be overcome.
- Emphasizing the importance of good nutrition
- Providing as much fresh produce as we can
- Ensuring our boxes of food are at least 40 pounds
- Freeing up family resources to be used for other needs
- Reducing the stigma and stress of food insecurity
- Making our services accessible to those who need them
- Partnering with organizations addressing mental health needs
- Being welcoming and hospitable to all of our neighbors
Truly, what we do here is about so much more than food; it’s about compassion and hope. And food is about so much more than filling bellies; it’s about nourishing minds as well.
That means as supporters, your contributions extend far beyond the meals you provide. You are beacons of hope, creators of compassion, advocates for mental health. You are enabling THCA to continue to grow in our commitment to our community.
Last week, as a woman who received a box of food was leaving, she stopped me and told me that she had worked hard all of her life, but was laid off from her job. She had been so anxious about how she would feed her kids that she couldn’t sleep. Now, she said she was feeling so much better. She knew her kids would eat and she was even feeling hopeful.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Rev. Dr. Lisa Heilig,
Executive Director
Because we want start nourishing minds early on, for the past few years, THCA has partnered with nearby Laurel Ridge Elementary School to help with their weekend backpack program. For students who may not have enough food over the weekend, volunteers from the school’s PTA have packed a backpack full of food for them to take home on Friday. We have provided them with food items for the backpacks, like canned meats, soups, shelf stable milk, peanut butter, bread, and even fresh produce.
In order to provide even more food for families as summer break is upon us, this past weekend we held a Mobile Food Pantry where volunteers from Laurel Ridge, Druid Hills Middle School, Repair the World, and Second Ponce de Leon Baptist worked together to distribute almost 9,000 pounds of food to over 70 families!
Summer break is indeed upon us and it is a great time to come volunteer with us at THCA! We take volunteers 14 and up (it is a great opportunity for any high school students who need community service hours!). Volunteers need to be able to lift at least 25 pounds, stand for periods of time, and withstand various weather conditions. Click this link to sign up.
Donating items we need is another way to show you care.
MOST NEEDED ITEMS OF FOOD
Shelf Stable Milk
Canned Meat/Chicken/Tuna
Canned Fruit (or in pouches)
Pop-Top Soup/Pasta/Chili
Crackers
MOST NEEDED SUPPLIES
Diapers (Especially size 5/6/7)
Baby Wipes
Clean used plastic grocery bags
Reusable Cloth Grocery bags
Donated items can be dropped off Monday through Friday 9am to noon.
**Please note that we are closed on Monday, May 27 for Memorial Day and unable to take donations on that day**
We are not in need of articles of clothing at this time.
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