Symphony Patrons Respond Generously to Food Drive
Orchestras Feeding America Responds to a National Crisis

We at the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra are constantly reminded of the important role that music plays in people’s lives. As JSO Executive Director Stacy Ridenour puts it, “We all are feeling the effects of this economic crisis. Our orchestra’s music has the power to uplift people, and with the generous participation of our patrons, musicians, staff and volunteers, we can all carry that spirit to uplift those most in need.”

The healing qualities of music are never more important than in times of need, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that now is the best time to give. Of the 36 million Americans currently at risk of hunger, 12 million are children. In the past year alone, food banks have reported a 30 percent increase in demand for emergency assistance.

These troubling statistics, coupled with the current state of the economy, led the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra to partner with Orchestras Feeding America, an unprecedented national effort by America’s symphony orchestras. Here in Jacksonville, the drive benefited the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council (DESC), an emergency services agency established to provide assistance to the poor, particularly families with young children, the elderly and the sick or disabled. The drive took place in conjunction with the JSO concerts on March 26, 27 and 28.

Jacksonville Symphony patrons, musicians, staff and volunteers responded generously, donating more than 1,500 pounds of canned goods such as vegetables, pasta and juices. Those who donated these much-needed goods were given vouchers for an upcoming concert as a thank-you. More than 200 people participated, a terrific indication of just how successful the food drive was.

Mary Spuhler, executive director of DESC, says that her expectations were more than exceeded, calling the amount of donations received a “bounty,” and saying: “It’s wonderfully gratifying to see how the patrons of the JSO have supported this food drive.” DESC received close to 1,000 grocery items. This amounts to 1,548 pounds of food valued at $2,316.27, which Spuhler says is greatly appreciated and will serve our community in a tremendous way.

Orchestras Feeding America, initiated by the League of American Orchestras and inspired by the true story of the upcoming film The Soloist, is combating hunger in both our community and the entire country with the help of more than 250 orchestras in all 50 states. Sherrie Calvert, the Symphony Guild coordinator and DESC volunteer, says that now is the most important time to give: “We often think that the money we make doesn’t stretch that far in the supermarket, but think about those living off food stamps or those without jobs. The people who receive these donations are those who need them the most.”

- Virginia Chamlee