From Judy K. Orr, Executive Director

“Give, and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap.” -Luke 6:38

In the wake of the recent ice storm that left many across Middle Tennessee without power and facing a variety of ongoing challenges, we have remained steadfast in our mission to provide love, hope, and healing.

Selected among the first nonprofits to administer assistance from the United Way’s 2026 Winter Storm Recovery Fund, we quickly expanded our disaster response, opening 150 cases within the first three days to assist families experiencing housing challenges, financial strain, and storm-related damage. More than $50,000 in grants and donations is already helping meet urgent needs such as rent and utilities, while a new partnership with Airbnb is providing temporary housing for those unable to safely return home.

Recent donations of essential food and other supplies are further strengthening recovery efforts as we help our neighbors move from crisis toward stability.

This spirit of compassion will also be reflected at our upcoming Festival of Hope on March 3, the largest annual fundraiser supporting Catholic Charities’ life-changing work across Middle Tennessee. Sponsorship opportunities remain available, and guests are invited to reserve their complimentary tickets as we gather in celebration of the community that makes this mission possible.

18 Wheels of Hunger Relief

On January 15, a semi-truck carrying 40,000 pounds of food arrived at the Catholic Pastoral Center, a generous gift from JustServe.org and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville was honored to be the first location selected to receive this extraordinary delivery, honoring America’s 250th  anniversary.

Thanks to careful coordination and many helping hands, the truck was unloaded in just about an hour. This food is now being distributed to pantries at our seven Family Resource Centers throughout Middle Tennessee, where it is expected to nourish approximately 1,400 families in the weeks ahead.

We are also grateful to NewsChannel 5 Nashville, WKRN News 2, and WZTV FOX 17 News for highlighting this initiative and helping shine a light on the ongoing need for hunger relief across our region:

WKRN was on the scene at the Catholic Pastoral Center to cover the donation unpacking. Select image to watch.

Heather Mencke, Senior Director, Programs, answers questions from Eric Pointer, News Channel 5. Select image to watch.

A Gift from Ohio

Living out the Gospel call, a substantial shipment of disaster supplies, food, and personal care items arrived at the Catholic Pastoral Center from Matthew 25 Ministries in Cincinnati.

Gifts like these allow Catholic Charities to continue extending care throughout Middle Tennessee, offering comfort and stability to our neighbors navigating difficult circumstances.

Nevertheless, Catholic Charities pantries require continual replenishment. Together with you, we can provide relief over the long-term to those who need it most. Please consider donating to your local Catholic Charities Family Resource Center or online via our Amazon Wishlist.

Join us at the Catholic Pastoral Center on Tuesday, March 3, at 7:30 a.m. for a delicious breakfast catered by The Clean Plate Club, powerful stories of hope and transformation, live music, and more.

With Bishop Spalding in attendance, and emceed by Rhori Johnston, this annual event highlights the profound impact your generosity has on the lives of our neighbors in need.

✨ Sponsorship opportunities for corporations, foundations, and individuals are still available and help make this event possible.

🍽️ There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

➡️ Explore sponsorship opportunities:
🔗 cctenn.org/foh/

➡️ Register for free tickets and save your spot today:
🔗 https://givebutter.com/FoHCatholicCharities2026

Our Gentle Giant

Hunger Relief Specialist and Head Chef Carolyn Holmes is pictured with Hollis Biffle, Safety and Resource Specialist at Loaves & Fishes (Dec. 2025).

A familiar and beloved presence at Loaves and Fishes in Nashville, Safety and Resource Specialist Hollis Biffle was recently featured in a profile by Brad Schmitt of The Tennessean.

Though only six months into his current role, Hollis is already known for meeting each guest with compassion and respect. Whether offering a listening ear, building friendships, or helping ease tense moments, he brings calm and dignity to everyone who walks through the door.

As Hollis shares, Loaves and Fishes is about more than serving 600 meals each week. It is about connection, restoring dignity, and reminding every guest that they are loved as children of God.

No Experience Needed, Just a Big Heart

When Rose Marie Arnold left her career in the securities industry, she wondered if she had the right skills to help others. She soon discovered that compassion was more than enough.

Fast forward and Rose Marie has repurposed her skills and made a real difference at our Maury County Family Resource Center, where she welcomes visitors, organizes donations, and mobilizes support from her parish whenever a need arises.

“You get so much more out of it than you expect,” she said.

Through her leadership, fellow parishioners step forward with food drives, baby clothes, financial support, and manpower. Rose Marie’s example shows that making a difference does not require specialized experience, only a generous heart.

P.S. Many parishes host outreach ministry fairs, and we would be honored to join yours. Recently, we visited St. Henry after Sunday Masses to answer questions and share ways parishioners can volunteer and support neighbors in need. If your parish is planning a fair, I would be delighted to connect.

Blessings to you and yours as we approach Lent,

Our Mission:

Following Christ's example, we recognize the

dignity of all people and serve our neighbors. 

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville

2806 McGavock Pike | Nashville, TN 37214

(615) 352-3087 | www.cctenn.org