Safe Lives, Strong Voices Ep.7

Host Soo reflects on Tri-Valley Haven’s Thanksgiving food distribution and the 10th Annual Moni Nop Turkey Drop, thanking volunteers, donors, and community partners for their generosity. She shares details about the upcoming December 13th Holiday Distribution, Spring 2026 Advocacy Training, and reminds listeners that the crisis line is open 24/7 at 800-884-8119.

Transcript

SPEAKER_00: 0:04

Hi everyone and welcome back to Safe Lives Strong Voices, a podcast by Trivalley Haven. I'm Sue and I'm so glad you're here. As we move through December, I want to take a moment to look back on our Thanksgiving food distribution, share our appreciation for everyone who made it possible, and talk about what's coming up this month, including our holiday distribution and our next advocacy training opportunities. The week of Thanksgiving was one of our biggest drive-thru distributions of the year, and it was both busy and deeply meaningful. Cars began lining up early, forming a long line down the block. Families waited patiently in their vehicles, and no matter how long the line became, we made sure each household felt welcomed and cared for. What stood out most was the commitment of our volunteers. Many of them bundled up and worked outside in the cold for hours, directing traffic, loading food into trunks, offering friendly greetings, and keeping everything running safely and smoothly. Their presence, warmth, and teamwork made the entire event possible. We also felt the impact of our community partners who held food drives in the weeks leading up to the distribution, helping us fill our shelves at exactly the right time. Local organizations, schools, businesses, and generous neighbors contributed what they could, ensuring we had enough food for every household that came through. And donors, whether giving one can or multiple boxes, helped us meet the increased need with dignity and care. In addition, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in the 10th annual Moni Knob Turkey Drop, which took place on November 23rd. Because of their generosity, families in the Tri Valley were able to receive turkeys for their Thanksgiving meals this year. This long-standing tradition makes a real difference, and we are deeply grateful to Moni and Sophie, volunteers and donors who made it possible. Because of this combined effort, volunteers working tirelessly, partners stepping up, and donors giving from the heart, every family drove away with a complete Thanksgiving meal, and we are truly grateful for everyone who made that day happen. Now, as we look ahead, we're preparing our December holiday distribution, which will take place this Saturday, December 13th. On this day, families will be able to receive holiday food, and for those who are pre-registered, we will also be distributing gift cards for the holidays. Gift cards offer flexibility and allow families to choose what fits their household need. But I do want to gently clarify one important note that only pre-registered clients will receive gift cards along with the food on Saturday. If someone is not registered or walks up on the day of the event, they are still welcome and will absolutely receive food. We want to be transparent and respectful about this process so families know what to expect when they arrive. As we move through December, we're also preparing for a next round of advocacy training. This training is a meaningful way for community partners to support survivors, respond to crisis line calls, take part in SART, or assist in our legal clinic. It's a 70-hour program, and many of our most dedicated volunteers and staff members began their journey in this training. We are already accepting applications for the spring 2026 cycle. If you've ever felt called to be a part of this work, this is a good time to learn more and consider applying. Our volunteer coordinator is happy to answer any questions, and you can find all the details at trivalleyhaven.org slash volunteer or by emailing volunteer at trivalleyhaven.org. Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate recognizing their dedication and hard work. If you or someone you know is looking for a way to make a direct and compassionate impact in our community, this may be the right next step. And before I close today's episode, I want to acknowledge something many people feel but don't always talk about. This time of year can be heavy. Gatherings, crowded spaces, or family expectations can bring up stress, or sometimes homes may feel less safe. If you or someone close to you is having a difficult moment, please know that you are not alone. Tri-Valley Haven's crisis line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Anytime you call, a trained staff or advocate will answer, ready to listen. And that number is 1-800-884-8119. Whether you need support, safety planning, resources, or simply someone to hear you, we are here. And as we move through the rest of December, I hope you find moments of calm, comfort, and connection. And on behalf of everyone here at Tri Valley Haven, thank you so much for being a part of a community that shows up with generosity and heart. We'll see you next month on Safe Lives Strong Voices. And until then, please take care of yourselves and each other.