By John Balch
News-Leader staff
Things are tough all over, and with food costs soaring, services like Nashville’s non-profit Bread of Life are really taking a financial hit.
“The cost of food is becoming outrageous,” said Tim Pinkerton, president of the service which has a mission statement proclaiming: “Our mission is to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.”
“It’s making it hard on everybody, us included,” added coordinator Geneva Walton, who has been involved in the Nashville Bread of Life “since Day One.”
Donations are the Bread of Life’s “bread and butter,” and Pinkerton and Walton say now is the time to step up and help out with either financial or food donations or even volunteering.
Pinkerton advised that making a financial donation has never been easier with the service’s new website breadoflifenashville.com. The first thing that presents on the website is the word – in all capital letters – DONATE. Click it or tap it and proceed as instructed to make a tax-deductible pledge.
Bread of Life served its first meal in Nashville in November 2011 at the old conglomerate stone American Legion Hut. The cooking took place across the street at the Dodson Street Church of Christ, according to Walton.
Walton and Pinkerton said the service was “the brainchild” of big-hearted local resident Amy Reese, who was committed and worked tirelessly to get the idea off the ground. Due to health issues, Reese has since handed over her vision to able volunteers.
The service moved to its current location at 201 South Washington in September 2021. The move was made possible by many volunteer hours and gracious community donations. Pinkerton said the land was donated by Noel Davis Jr., with the building constructed for free by Greg Furr and Quality Construction. Tyson Foods also kicked in $100,000 toward the project, and former State Rep. Danny Watson was a big supporter, as Pinkerton hopes new State Rep. Dolly Henley will be, too.
On the building’s outside entrance is a new custom-made orange metal sign donated by longtime supporter and volunteer Cary Lott. Inside the Bread of Life building, Walton said, “everything you see is donations” with the exception of an industrial kitchen vent. All the furnishings were donated by Ivan Smith Furniture in Nashville.
Walton “guesstimates” the Bread of Life has served up 150,000 meals, so far, averaging 800 meals monthly with approximately 175-180 carry outs and the remainder dining in. The service also currently has eight volunteer drivers who deliver meals to those in need, and, if available, sacks of groceries are also distributed to those who dine in on Tuesday nights.
Walton said that before meals start at the Bread of Life a short devotional is held with a goal of making everyone feel welcome and comfortable. “Hugs and fellowship” are commonplace.
Bread of Life is also looking for sponsors this year that will each cover the cost of 200-250 carry out meals, which could include hot meals or sack lunches. Pinkerton said the estimated cost of a sponsorship is $400-$500.
Bread of Life is open every Tuesday evening for a 5 o’clock meal at 201 South Washington, Nashville.
With the exception of utility and groundskeeping costs, all financial donations are used solely for carrying out the Bread of Life’s mission and dedication “to providing nourishing meals and support individuals and families in need.”
Food donations should include nonperishable items. Some items needed at Bread of Life include large carryout trays, 55-gallon trash bags, utensils and cleaning supplies. The service also accepts clothing.
For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation, contact Walton at (870) 557-8237, Pinkerton at (870) 845-7034 or visit the Bread of Life website.
Donations may also be mailed to:
Bread of Life
C/o Tim Pinkerton
P.O. Box 961
Nashville, AR 71852
