"When we launched this first-of-its-kind effort to shine a spotlight on one community game changer each month, we knew we had tremendous resources to bring to the cause and ignite our players, our fans and our staff to give back to the community that supports us day after day. In this season of giving, we can think of no greater partner than Martha's Table. They host dozens of free, fresh food pop-ups each month at schools across D.C. - but they need community volunteers to staff the markets. Our own MSE staff volunteers monthly, and we ask our fans to join us," said Monica Dixon, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at MSE.
In January 2015, Martha's Table, in partnership with the Capital Area Food Bank and DC Health, launched "Joyful Food Markets" (JFM) to increase access to and encourage consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables east of the Anacostia River
Martha's Table's JFMs are pop-up, monthly markets held in elementary schools in Wards 7 and 8 in D.C. School families are invited to shop at no-cost for a variety of beautiful high-quality produce, including bananas, apples, greens and sweet potatoes, as well as basic shelf staples such as pasta and beans.
Martha's Table's JFMs currently support 53 elementary schools in Wards 7 and 8. To
volunteer
or sign-up to
adopt a market
, please visit marthastable.org.
"We're so grateful that Monumental Sports & Entertainment shares our commitment to supporting strong children, strong families, and strong communities. At Martha's Table, we believe every child, regardless of zip code, should have the opportunity to thrive, and we look forward to working with Monumental Sports & Entertainment this December as we amplify the voices of the families and neighbors we are in service of, through this partnership."- Kim R. Ford, President & CEO, Martha's Table, Inc.
Monumental announced its new Social Impact program in mid-September to shine the spotlight on a different issue area and a corresponding nonprofit partner working to better the community by lifting up and amplifying the stories of these impactful organizations, regularly engaging through service and grants, and making ongoing business investments that strengthen the region with a centralized focus on kids, heroes and community.
Monthly themes include youth sports, military, season of giving, child health, community service, black history month, mentorship, first responders, sustainability, education, women's health and equality and inclusion. In addition to a monthly grant to each organization made by the MSE Foundation, Monumental employees, players and fans will get involved in new ways by engaging in volunteer activities, amplifying key messages, learning about community change agents and through time and monetary donations. Fans will have multiple opportunities monthly, both in game and online, to show their support of each partner.
To learn more about Monumental's new social impact program, click
here.
