In times of uncertainty, true partnerships emerge—not just to meet immediate needs but to create lasting impact. That’s exactly what happened in the spring of 2020 when Families4Families (F4F) and Jubilee JumpStart joined forces to support families facing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as an emergency response has since evolved into a vital, ongoing collaboration, providing essential resources to families in need.
Today, this partnership continues to flourish, with F4F’s student-led clubs delivering over $28,000 worth of groceries and household essentials in 2024 alone. Families struggling to make ends meet rely on Jubilee JumpStart’s monthly pop-up market, where they can shop for these necessities free of charge.
A Partnership Rooted in Service & Leadership
F4F’s model is unique—students take the lead in organizing food drives, collecting donations, and distributing essentials to community-based nonprofits like ours. This hands-on approach not only meets critical needs but also fosters leadership, empathy, and civic engagement among young people.
Jubilee JumpStart’s Community & Family Engagement Manager, Danica Benson, recalls the partnership’s early days:
"Amanda Marshall, Families4Families’ co-founder, reached out to our Executive Director at the time, Dee Dee Parker Wright, just as we were preparing to reopen after the pandemic shutdown. She and her family personally delivered groceries to our families in need. What started as a grassroots effort quickly grew into something much larger—F4F student clubs now organize food drives across the country, and we proudly partner with clubs at Landon School, Holton-Arms School, and Sheridan School.”
These partnerships are more than just logistical efforts—they create meaningful connections. F4F Student Leader Maddy Kavounas shared her perspective:
“Getting to see where the groceries go and how our efforts pay off is a truly wonderful experience. That’s why I continue working with F4F.”
Beyond Food: Building Community & Awareness
Under the leadership of F4F Executive Director Hunter Rich, the initiative has grown into a national network of over 130 student-led clubs, each partnering with a nonprofit in their local community. Hunter explains:
“Families4Families creates a direct relationship between students and nonprofits, giving young people the opportunity to learn about real challenges in their community. Students don’t just donate—they actively organize, strategize, and lead.”
At Jubilee JumpStart, we believe equity begins in early childhood. Education and access to basic needs go hand in hand, and thanks to Families4Families, our families receive the essential support they need to thrive.
We are incredibly grateful for this partnership and look forward to continuing this work together. Because when we empower families, engage young leaders, and strengthen our community, everyone benefits.
Want to Get Involved?
Join us in making a difference! Learn more about Jubilee JumpStart here and Families4Families here.
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