Dear friends and family,
These are uncertain times for all of us. When everything feels unsettled, it helps to pause and recognize the things we can be grateful for: a safe home, our loved ones, and the food we have on hand. At the same time, it’s important to remember that many in our communities are experiencing real hardship. As businesses and schools close and incomes are interrupted, food insecurity is becoming more widespread. That’s why supporting local and national hunger-relief efforts right now matters more than ever.
Weeks ago I launched a local fundraiser on my Instagram to support the North Texas Food Bank (NTFB). The response from The Defined Dish community was incredible — together we raised more than $13,000. To put that impact in perspective: $13,000 enabled the creation of 1,857 food boxes, and each of those boxes provides roughly 21 meals for a family. That adds up to more than 39,000 meals distributed in North Texas alone. This shows how small individual contributions add up to meaningful, tangible help when we come together.
Many people in our community asked how we could make it easier for everyone across the country to join in, regardless of where they live. After researching options and speaking with my local food bank, we selected Feeding America as the partner for a broader campaign. Feeding America is the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief network, working with approximately 200 food banks nationwide. They serve millions of people facing hunger, including children and seniors, and they’ve created a dedicated COVID-19 Response Fund to scale assistance during this crisis.
I spoke with a representative at Feeding America who confirmed that donations to this fund support communities across the United States. The organization is planning not only for immediate needs but also for the longer-term effects of the pandemic, when many families may continue to face reduced income and increased need. Your gift today will help local food banks secure supplies, distribute food boxes, and serve people who are struggling to put meals on the table.
For The Defined Dish community, I’ve set a fundraising goal of $50,000 — and I truly believe we can surpass it. To make this challenge more fun, Clayton has agreed to shave his large beard if we reach the $50,000 milestone. The important part, though, is the impact our combined efforts will have: even modest donations add up quickly. If everyone gives a little, we can deliver thousands more meals and provide relief to families in need.
To donate now, click here.
If you can’t make a financial donation right now, there are other ways to help: share this campaign with friends and family, organize a virtual fundraiser, or connect with your local food bank to learn about volunteer opportunities they may be offering that follow safety guidelines. Spreading the word amplifies our collective impact and helps ensure that food assistance reaches those who need it most.
Thank you for being part of this community and for caring about neighbors near and far. I am grateful for your support, your generosity, and your willingness to come together during a difficult moment. Please take care of yourself and your loved ones — and if you’re able, consider making a gift so we can help more families stay fed and secure in the weeks ahead.
Sincerely,
The Defined Dish Community