These events capture our attention because of their scale and the heartbreaking images they leave behind. Entire communities can be changed forever in a matter of moments.

But not every disaster makes the news. Sometimes disaster arrives quietly at a family’s front door. It may be a house fire that destroys everything a family owns. It may be a father who unexpectedly loses his job and suddenly struggles to keep the lights on. It may be a mother forced to choose between paying rent and buying groceries, only to discover there is not enough money for either. For these families, the crisis is every bit as real and urgent as a hurricane, earthquake, or war.

At Gleaning For The World, we believe every disaster matters. Since 1998, we have responded to both large-scale catastrophes and personal crises, partnering with churches, food banks, shelters, schools, veterans organizations, and community groups to provide practical help and hope to those facing difficult circumstances. Whether someone has lost their home in a natural disaster or is simply struggling to make ends meet, we believe no suffering is too small to deserve compassion.

Over the years, our donors and partners have helped us respond to disasters around the world. When war erupted in Ukraine, millions of innocent families were displaced from their homes. Through trusted distribution partners, Gleaning helped deliver critically needed supplies including food, hygiene products, baby items, blankets, and other essentials to families caught in the middle of a conflict they never chose.

International crises demand immediate action. So do the challenges faced by families in our own communities. The people we serve may look different. One may be a mother fleeing violence overseas. Another may be a grandparent sorting through the remains of a storm-damaged home. Another may be a family in Central Virginia facing financial hardship and running out of options. While their circumstances vary, their need for hope, support, and the reassurance that they are not facing their challenges alone, are often the same.

Because of generous supporters, Gleaning’s response remains the same: We Are Here.

As hurricane season begins, we are reminded of the importance of preparedness. Every family should take time to review emergency plans, stock essential supplies, and understand evacuation routes if they live in vulnerable areas.

However, disasters don’t follow a calendar. Storms may have seasons, but personal crises can happen any day of the year. That’s why Gleaning works year-round to keep our warehouses stocked and our distribution network ready. Food, clothing, hygiene products, medical supplies, household goods, and other essential resources are continually moving through our facility so that when help is needed, we can respond quickly.

This readiness is only possible because of the generosity of people who believe that every person deserves hope during difficult times. Whether responding to a major disaster, helping a struggling family, supporting a veteran, or providing resources to a local nonprofit partner, every act of generosity helps us extend compassion where it is needed most. Together, we are proving that suffering, regardless of its size or location, does not have to have the final word.

If you would like to help Gleaning continue responding to disasters both large and small, please consider making a donation today. Your support helps keep our shelves stocked, our partners supplied, and our mission moving forward as we serve vulnerable individuals and families both locally and around the world.

In service and partnership,