FREDERICK, Md. – On Saturday, November 22, community members united to address food insecurity in the Golden Mile neighborhood of Frederick through a collaborative community service project aligned with the Frederick County ENOUGH initiative.
"Frederick County is built on compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to supporting one another," said County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. "By partnering with community organizations and leveraging local resources, we strive to ensure that every family has access to nutritious food, especially during the holiday season."
The event was organized by the Frederick County Division of Family Services, the Frederick County ENOUGH Advisory Council member organizations, the Trailblazers of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., with the support of International Market and H-Mart. This service project for the Trailblazers youth group blended community engagement, cultural awareness, and teamwork to bring nourishment, hope, and the warmth of community to people in the Golden Mile neighborhood.
"This event shows the strength of community and cultural unity in tackling food insecurity," said Leshia Chandler, Director of the Frederick County Division of Family Services. "Working with community partners, we are proud to support our community by providing nourishment and hope to families in need."
Participants gathered to reflect on the challenges of food insecurity and the importance of cultural understanding. Groups travelled to the markets to complete culturally inspired shopping lists within a set budget. Then, they organized and packed groceries for delivery, adding “Wishing Well Notes” to each box. The Division of Family Services also provided the recipients with winter apparel for their children.
"This service project in support of the ENOUGH Initiative not only addresses food insecurity, a priority area for Jack and Jill, it also demonstrates the profound impact that young leaders can make when they embrace their responsibility to uplift their communities," said JJWMC President Yokechia Kenyatta.
All eligible recipients of this event reside in the Golden Mile Community, have children who attend the community school feeders, and are considered an Asset Limited, Income Constrained, but Employed (ALICE) household.
For more information, visit FrederickCountyMD.gov/FamilyServices. To learn more about The Western Maryland Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., please visit JackAndJillInc.org.
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CONTACT: Hope Morris
Communications Manager
Office of Communications and Public Engagement
301-600-2590