Dear Editor,
The Manna House Board of Directors is concerned about the rising expenses of the Manna House. This is due primarily to a decrease in food contributions; extra cost of take-out trays (since meals are not being served inside the Manna house); increased number of meals served daily; and buying food at continually rising costs. During 2022, we have served an average of 195+ individuals daily, compared to 60-70 persons served daily in 2019.
The Board has voted to immediately limit the number of meals served to 100 plates per day, one per person, and distribute these plates until we run out. We regret that we had to limit the meals we serve, but we know we must be good stewards of the funds generously sent to us.
We are requesting help from our community. Possibly your church or organization can have a special Christmas box to collect canned food, or have a special day to collect perishable food, and/or have a special offering during the Christmas season. During this last quarter, our donations were down.
In addition to food, we also have an immediate need for volunteers. Some of our pre-Covid volunteers have aged, moved away, or are deceased. Sometimes our churches aren’t able to serve every day during their assigned week. Many times, only one or two volunteers are present at lunch time. Additionally, we need more volunteers to return to serving meals within the Manna House. Volunteers are asked to serve between 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
We hope that you, your church or organization can assist with this special holiday request for volunteers, food and monetary gifts. Manna House has served Yazoo for over 40 years with the generosity and support of this community. No donation is too small or too large, give what you can with a joyful heart, be it food, money or time. God Bless Yazoo City.
Sincerely,
The Manna House Board of Directors
Kay A. Mills,
President
