May has been a very busy month for MUM! Facing the reality of having less food and funding as pandemic-era programs end, we have made the difficult decision to reduce the number of mobile food pantries we operate for the next few months, while evaluating our programming, seeking stakeholder input, and developing a strategic plan. Of course, our work doesn’t stop, and we continue to rely on donations of food, time and money to continue our operations. In May, for instance, we had a successful Stamp Out Hunger campaign and are grateful for the support of long-time supporter May Nakamura, who asked for donations to MUM to help celebrate her 103rd birthday! We look forward to your continued support during the Summer months!

In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation week, I want to thank the many volunteers who give their time and talents to MUM! We truly could not have supported the nearly 750 households we provided food to in March without so many wonderful volunteers. MUM’s dedicated volunteers show up in all kinds of weather and do whatever we ask of them.

MUM and other emergency assistance providers in Maryland and across the country are concerned about impending hunger and housing “cliffs” as pandemic-era emergency protections and benefit programs run out.

As we announced in December, our year-end goal was to raise $20,000. MUM’s active Board of Directors agreed to match year-end donations up to $10,000. And thanks to many generous contributions, we made that goal by the end of the calendar year! Thank you for your generosity, which allows us to continue to support our neighbors in need!

As we come to the end of the year, MUM once again is grateful for all of you. 2022 included more opportunities for MUM to raise awareness and funds in the community, with the return of Stamp Out Hunger and Taste of Wheaton, and the second annual HalloWheaton event!

From the Director’s Corner

As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to share my sincere gratitude for the many donors and volunteers who make MUM’s work possible. Without their gifts of time, talent, food, and money, MUM would not be able to feed around 500 households each month and provide emergency financial assistance to those experiencing financial emergencies. November 29 is GivingTuesday, and MUM is participating again this year in this global celebration and expression of generosity. Supporting MUM through GivingTuesday is an opportunity to support your local neighbors facing financial challenges.