Givens Philanthropy recently stepped in to support residents at Givens Gerber Park (GGP) and Givens Great Laurels (GGL) who have been experiencing uncertainty with their SNAP benefits, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that helps low-income individuals and families afford groceries. When these benefits became uncertain, many residents faced added stress about meeting basic needs.
Through the Resident Assistance Ministry Fund, Philanthropy provided Publix gift cards to help ease the burden of grocery expenses during this challenging time. This effort was made possible thanks to the leadership and advocacy of Teresa Stephens, Vice President of Affordable Communities, who alerted Philanthropy to the urgent need among residents in our affordable housing communities. We are deeply grateful for her commitment to ensuring that these residents receive the care and support they deserve.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to BeLoved Asheville, a local nonprofit that stepped up in a powerful way by providing additional grocery store gift cards to residents impacted by the delays in SNAP benefits. Their generosity is more than assistance; it is a reminder that compassion and solidarity make all the difference. Thank you, BeLoved, for being a beacon of hope and dignity in our community.
Givens residents expressed heartfelt gratitude for this assistance, sharing words of appreciation and even tears of relief. One resident shared:
“I began to tear up when I received the financial support as things have been very stressful with finances. Receiving these grocery gift cards was a huge blessing, especially since the holidays are coming up.”
This initiative reflects Givens Communities’ unwavering commitment to helping all residents age with dignity and care, even during difficult seasons. The Philanthropy Department is honored to have partnered with the Resident Services Coordinators and Leadership at Givens Gerber Park and Givens Great Laurels to respond quickly and compassionately to this need. Together, we reaffirm what makes Givens special: an organization where care is not just a value, but a promise lived out every day.