In the heart of the Pine Belt region of Mississippi, a remarkable act of community support is unfolding. The folks at Extra Table, a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting hunger, have stepped up to ensure that families in need can enjoy a bountiful holiday feast. Through their "Give 'Em A Bird and The Dressing, Too" campaign, they have distributed thousands of frozen chickens and boxes of stuffing to food pantries across the region, bringing joy and nourishment to those who might otherwise go without.

Uplifting the Pine Belt Community One Meal at a Time

Spreading Holiday Cheer with Frozen Fowl and Savory Stuffing

As the holiday season approaches, the Pine Belt region of Mississippi is abuzz with the generosity of Extra Table, a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting hunger. Through their "Give 'Em A Bird and The Dressing, Too" campaign, they have been distributing thousands of frozen chickens and boxes of stuffing to food pantries across the area, ensuring that families in need can enjoy a bountiful holiday feast.The impact of this initiative is far-reaching, as it touches the lives of the elderly, the underprivileged, and those who are struggling to make ends meet. "We have a lot of elderly people, in their 80's and 90's, and they can't do for themselves like they used to do, so this helps them out," said Extra Table volunteer Greg Ross. The organization's efforts are a testament to the community's commitment to caring for its most vulnerable members.

Empowering Local Food Pantries to Serve Their Communities

The distribution of the holiday food items is a collaborative effort, with representatives from food pantries near Meridian and as far south as Poplarville gathering at the Extra Table warehouse to receive their share of the bounty. This coordinated approach ensures that the resources are distributed equitably and reach the communities that need them most."The community is trying to take care of the people who can't take care of themselves," Ross explained, highlighting the collective spirit that drives this initiative. By providing these essential food items, Extra Table is empowering local food pantries to better serve their communities and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are struggling.

Ensuring Every Table and Family Has a Holiday Centerpiece

At the heart of Extra Table's "Give 'Em A Bird and The Dressing, Too" campaign is a deep commitment to ensuring that every family in the Pine Belt region can enjoy a bountiful holiday meal. "This is our holiday campaign," said Extra Table Executive Director Martha Allen. "Every table, every family, needs a bird as the centerpiece this holiday and at Extra Table, that's really important to us."The organization's dedication to this cause is evident in the sheer scale of their efforts. Over the past two days, they have distributed an impressive 9,000 chickens and 12,000 boxes of stuffing to food pantries across the state. This massive undertaking is a testament to the organization's unwavering commitment to fighting hunger and bringing joy to those in need.

Expanding the Reach of Extra Table's Year-Round Efforts

While the "Give 'Em A Bird and The Dressing, Too" campaign is a seasonal initiative, it is part of Extra Table's broader mission to provide food assistance to communities in need throughout the year. The organization works tirelessly to supply more than 60 food pantries across Mississippi with essential food items on a monthly basis.This year-round effort ensures that families in the Pine Belt region and beyond can access the nourishment they need, not just during the holidays, but throughout the entire year. By partnering with local food pantries, Extra Table is able to leverage its resources and expertise to make a lasting impact on the lives of those who are struggling with food insecurity.As the holiday season approaches, the generosity and compassion of Extra Table and the Pine Belt community serve as a shining example of the power of collective action to uplift those in need. Through their "Give 'Em A Bird and The Dressing, Too" campaign, they are not only providing sustenance but also spreading joy and hope, ensuring that every table and family in the region can enjoy a truly bountiful holiday feast.