2010 Miss Tennessee Kacey Stark works with Loaves & Fishes Christian Food Ministry, Inc.

The mission of the non-profit institution is to “offer assistance, encouragement and empowerment of persons in need through the distribution of food and limited financial assistance”. Those in need may receive donations from the distribution center, or via home delivery by a Loaves & Fishes volunteer.

Located in Burlington, North Carolina, Loaves & Fishes is an organization that distributes food donations from the community to families in need throughout the surrounding six counties. The mission of the non-profit institution is to “offer assistance, encouragement and empowerment of persons in need through the distribution of food and limited financial assistance”. Those in need may receive donations from the distribution center, or via home delivery by a Loaves & Fishes volunteer. This philanthropy also organizes several special events throughout the year to give back to the city, such as Make a Difference Day and the Thanksgiving Lunch.
Loaves & Fishes is an organization that is close to Kacey’s heart, since the entity exemplifies the importance of a caring community, and the impact one person’s contribution can make. Hunger and poverty in the United States are issues that affect many families within each county. According to www.feedingamerica.org, one in six Americans are food insecure, and 43.6 million Americans were in poverty in 2009. Adequate nutrition is a necessity to one’s total well being; the effects of malnutrition can be severe, especially for children. Many who are struggling with hunger are hardworking citizens who simply cannot make ends meet despite the desire to provide for his or her family. This national issue of hunger can be combated one neighborhood at a time through charity projects such as Loaves & Fishes. Having a role in an organization that provides resources and encouragement to families in need has been a rewarding experience for Kacey. She has seen how a community can work together to make a positive impact. She hopes to encourage others to support those in need in their hometown by donating or volunteering at their local food bank. Together, we can make a positive impact by helping our neighbors overcome poverty.