Giving the Gift: Nourishment

Westchester County is often spoken of in rarefied terms, the
proverbial land of milk and honey. It's all I know, I've lived here my entire life.

Last Sunday the Journal News' lead feature was called Hidden Hunger, and featured six personal stories of local residents who are clients of local food pantries. According to the article, in 2010 roughly 1 our of every ten residents was food insecure-that is, they didn't know where their next meal was going to be coming from.

It's said that big issues with big numbers 'read' as incomprehensible, unfathomable to others-but when names, faces and specific circumstances are shared it becomes real. A big thank you to these reporters, and to those who shared their story. If you missed this series, please follow the link above and check it out.

Hunger is not a new, or seasonal issue.

Being hungry puts a lot of other things in perspective.

I know a lot of people, and see many faces in the course of a day. The thought that 10% of them might be juggling, trying to find a way to feed themselves and their family really hits my core.

Last year Janet Jones, a Stager friend in Hawaii wrote about her volunteer efforts for the Maui Food Bank, and suffice to say, I am inspired, and in the days to come will be laying the groundwork, and announcing  The Refreshed Home's commitment to give back.

Meantime, if you have any upcoming gift-giving opportunities, please
consider making a donation on the behalf of your gift recipient, to their local food bank. Be they clients, family or friends-it will resonate in ways you cannot imagine. Here is how you can help in our area-how you can make a difference: Food Bank of Westchester , or the Food Bank of Hudson Valley for Rockland and Putnam counties. Gifts of funds, food and yes, your time are all welcome. And stay tuned.

Marie Graham is an Interior Decorator, a Home Stager, and owner of The Refreshed Home. She may be contacted at marie@therefreshedhome.com, or 914.607.2895.