Nourishing Gratitude

A reflection by Avery Pennington, USM Development & Publications Associate

This month, I had the opportunity to step out from behind my desk and join our pantry team in distributing fresh, nutritious produce to families in our community. Typically, my role on the development team keeps me focused on numbers and outcomes—writing about statistics, demographics, and funding impact. But when Keshia, our Chief Program Officer, invited USM staff members to take part in our pantry distribution, I was eager to experience firsthand what our work means to the people we serve.

As I handed out produce, I was reminded of how powerful it is to simply connect, face-to-face, with those whose lives our work touches. Surrounded by the buzz of people coming together for a shared purpose, I felt a deep sense of gratitude—for the work we do, the people we serve, and the team of compassionate individuals who make it all possible. In moments like these, it’s clear that gratitude nourishes not only our spirits but also our sense of purpose. In each smile and “thank you,” I felt the gift of community and the joy of knowing we are part of something larger than ourselves.

With the holiday season upon us, the importance of food as a way to bring people together feels more profound than ever. We gather around meals to celebrate, to remember, and to nurture bonds of family and friendship. Yet I was reminded that for too many, nutritious food is not a guarantee. It’s a privilege. And ensuring everyone has access to this basic need is essential to our mission and to a healthy, thriving community.

We’re also preparing for our Celebration of Positive Lives event for World AIDS Day, honoring the strength of people living with HIV who, with proper care, are able to live long, healthy lives. Good nutrition plays an essential role in their medical care, giving them the physical support they need to maintain resilience and well-being. As I helped distribute food, I couldn’t help but think about how access to healthy food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about giving people the support they need to live with dignity and hope.

At Ursuline Sisters Mission, we are dedicated to removing barriers to basic needs like food, housing, and education. I give thanks for the Sisters who saw these gaps in our community and decided to fill them. And I’m grateful for the remarkable people they’ve brought alongside them—like our dedicated pantry team—who work tirelessly to make sure no one in our community is overlooked or forgotten.

This holiday season, as I think back on the people I met and the gratitude they shared, I am reminded that our mission is about more than just meeting needs; it’s about uplifting lives and creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. And I’m grateful to be a part of that work.