In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Food City has come to the rescue of the News Sentinel Charities Empty Stocking Fund. When faced with an unexpected expense for food baskets distributed annually to thousands of families in East Tennessee, Food City stepped up by covering half of the $12,000 cost for oranges added to each basket. This act of kindness is in addition to the $7,000 donation already provided for the 2024 initiative. The charity’s distribution day on December 21 coincides with the Tennessee football team's playoff game against Ohio State, adding a festive touch to this charitable effort.
Details of the Generous Act
In the midst of the holiday season, when many families in East Tennessee look forward to receiving much-needed assistance, an unforeseen challenge arose for the Empty Stocking Fund. The organization discovered that it would require an additional $12,000 to include a bag of oranges in each food basket distributed to families. Without hesitation, Food City, a long-standing partner of the fund, offered to cover half of this cost. This contribution complements the earlier $7,000 donation made by the supermarket chain for the 2024 campaign.
The Empty Stocking Fund relies heavily on Food City for its annual food purchases. Typically, this involves a months-long process of selecting and reserving the necessary items. However, in this instance, Food City swiftly procured and delivered the oranges, showcasing their commitment to community support. Betsi James, the special events manager at Food City and a board member of the Empty Stocking Fund, emphasized that helping the community is one of their core values. She also acknowledged the generosity of Food City’s customers, whose donations to the Race Against Hunger program enable such charitable endeavors.
Joel Christopher, the executive editor of Knox News and president of the Empty Stocking Fund board of directors, expressed his gratitude for Food City’s timely and substantial contribution. He noted that the donation was especially meaningful given the strong connection between the orange theme and the Volunteer Nation, making it a memorable gesture during the holiday season.
This act of generosity serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and corporate responsibility. It highlights how businesses can make a significant difference in people's lives, especially during challenging times. Such initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also foster a sense of unity and compassion within the community. As we approach the holiday season, stories like these inspire us all to give back and contribute to those in need.