HAMPTON ROADS — THRIVE Day invites the community to “Give What You Can” to support families facing hardship across the Peninsula.
In November 2023, THRIVE opened in its new location which hosts The Market at THRIVE, the Peninsula’s first free grocery store, The Free Bookstore, The Garden at THRIVE and more. Since it opened, these resources have provided healthy groceries, books and more to more than 12,000 people.
To continue to distribute services at this level, the organization needs additional funding to keep the momentum.
On May 21, the organization seeks to raise money to bolster its services through the theme “Give What You Can,” which is inspired by the many THRIVE clients who give back to the organization by offering donations from their limited budgets.
All donations will be matched dollar for dollar until the organization reaches $20,000.
“We’ve had so much excitement since opening our innovative market-style pantry,” said Angela York, Executive Director of THRIVE. “The space allows us to serve so many more people, and the clients we serve are grateful to have a dignified community space to receive help, but we need support from our community to keep this pace.”
Since 2020, food costs have risen more than 30% and housing costs have risen by 25%. Since most people did not receive a 25-30% raise, more people than ever are struggling to get by, and for that reason, York says, demand is high.
“Our services offer a safety net for those who are living paycheck to paycheck because we offer more than food. We provide books, produce grown onsite, financial support and financial coaching — all free of charge. This space is for the community, made possible by the community. Through THRIVE Day we are inviting everyone to give what they can and learn more about what we do.”
There will be several events happening throughout THRIVE Day, including “Donations for Donuts” between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., as well as the Afternoon Commute Donation Drop-Off from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Donations can be made in person at the facility, 12749 Nettles Drive, Newport News or online at givebutter.com/thriveday.
THRIVE Peninsula is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to assisting Virginia Peninsula individuals and families through difficult times, addressing both essential living needs like food, housing and utilities, and the unique crises affecting each person. The volunteer-driven coalition helps coordinate community resources for what it calls a “tailored, integrated response.”
