Gathering at the table has long been a source of connection and community. While food benefits are paused during the government shutdown, neighbors across Robertson and Sumner Counties are stepping up to make sure those tables remain filled.

At Colorado Grill, owners Andy and Rosie Rutherford are proving that generosity is alive and well. They’ve pledged to donate 400 turkeys to help local families this Thanksgiving—coordinating closely with Hands of Hope Food Pantry in Portland to manage the logistics of purchasing, storing, and delivering so many meals.

Hands of Hope shared that “turkeys have arrived and more will be arriving each week at the pantry through Thanksgiving,” thanks to Andy and Rosie’s efforts. Those who signed up for Thanksgiving assistance will receive their box and turkey during their regular shopping visit this month, in addition to their normal groceries. Although turkey signups have ended, the pantry says it will do its best to help families whose circumstances have changed. Sumner County residents can email the pantry to be added to the waitlist.

Meanwhile, several local groups—Robertson County Sports Alliance, Generations Next, White House Snack Shack, and All Seasons Sports Grill—have joined forces for a food and gift card drive. Donations can be dropped off at White House Snack Shack Monday through Saturday or made online through the Share the Care program at White House Snack Shack’s website. Families can pick up food boxes on November 23rd, and questions can be directed here.

Community spirit is shining through the next generation, too. Girl Scout Troop 834 has assembled 50 full Thanksgiving meal kits for the Hope Center Food Bank and continues collecting canned goods through November 29th.

The South Haven Christian Preschool is doing a Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway. Preschool families are donating and collecting food items in hopes of making 10 Thanksgiving Baskets to be given to families in the Springfield and Robertson County Community. Nominations are accepted here.

Even online, support is growing. Local moms on the White House TN Lady Squad Facebook group—facilitated by Jill Kelly—are sharing money-saving meal tips and encouragement for families navigating tighter budgets.

Churches throughout the counties are providing meals, while the American Legion is hosting a community-style Thanksgiving feast on November 29th.

Businesses like Small Town Startup of Springfield are finding creative ways to help, distributing food boxes during Trick or Treat to bring smiles and support to local families.

Every day, social media fills with new examples of kindness—neighbors helping neighbors, businesses opening their doors, and organizations ensuring no one goes hungry.

While the government may be shut down, giving hasn’t stopped. The heart of our community is wide open, proving that compassion and connection can outlast any crisis.

Because when we gather together—whether around a table, at a drive, or in a local restaurant—we’re reminded that community isn’t something we lose during hard times. It’s what carries us through them. That's an integral part of staying positive.

Cover Photo: Girl Scout Troop 834