We’re lucky to have such generous teens in the South Hills, and Madi Senneway is a shining example of this generosity. Madi wanted to help feed families in the South Hills on her 6th birthday, so she asked her friends and family to bring food instead of gifts to donate to South Hills Interfaith Movement (SHIM). Since then, Madi has hosted a birthday food drive every year for ten years, collecting 4,317 pounds and $4,516 to donate to SHIM’s food pantries!
“I chose to host my food drive with SHIM because I wanted a food bank that was local and was helping my own neighbors.”
 Madi with her parents |
Last year 6,205 individuals relied on SHIM for food assistance. That’s 1,805 households, 663 of which accessed food assistance for the very first time. To support these neighbors in need, we purchased 577,342 pounds of food from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and generous neighbors like Madi donated 183,200 pounds of food and personal care items.
“It’s really heartwarming to see everyone coming together to help. I have a lot of fun doing it, and it really makes me happy to know that it’s helping people.”
 Pantry clients |
Even as the economy begins to recover from high inflation, families in our South Hills neighborhoods are struggling to make ends meet. Thirty-five percent of pantry participants are children and approximately half are refugees and immigrants. More than half of pantry participants are employed, with many holding down two or more jobs just to get by.
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We’ve seen the difference that neighbors like Madi have in our community. When we care about and support one another, we can ensure people’s ability to meet their basic needs and achieve self-sufficiency. As we give thanks for our family and friends during this joyous time of year, we encourage you to reflect on your ability to impact your neighbors. If you are able to help, please give now to support South Hills families.
