MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Shelby County School District is aware food insecurity hits close to home for many children. It’s why they set up a mobile food distribution drive-through to lend a helping hand.

Judging by the long line of cars outside LaRose Elementary on Wednesday for the final food giveaway of the summer, the need is great.

“Most people came out here, didn’t have anything. They left with something, and they had a smile on their face, and they were grateful,” said Deaysia Reeder, Specialized Education Assistant at LaRose Elementary.

They are grateful because food boxes were handed out on a first-come, first-served basis to families desperately trying to make ends meet.

MSCS school leaders say they’ve been providing these drive-through distributions all summer long. Their goal on this day is to serve at least 200 households.

“This is an important event because a lot of families don’t have food and money to buy basic necessities, and I love it, servicing my community and all around,” said Stephanie Love, MSCS School Board vice chair.

The event, led by the District’s Family Engagement Department, aims to reinforce MSCS’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and building stronger connections with the community.

“They are all needing help,” Love said. “Most people are just a paycheck away from getting put out, and it feels good to know that I am part of the solution instead of part of the problem.”

The problem of food insecurity in Memphis is being addressed one family, one vehicle at a time, and also proving to be food for the soul of those lending a helping hand.