RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - While many organizations across the state prepare to serve warm Thanksgiving meals, one Murfreesboro nonprofit is giving families the ingredients — and the dignity — to cook and share that special dinner in their own homes, apartments, or other living arrangements. With the number of residents in need of financial help rising, especially during the holidays, Greenhouse Ministries plans to give away enough meals to serve at least 650 families.
Christy Sanford, Executive Director of Greenhouse Ministries, recalled a touching story about a grandmother who picked up a turkey and trimmings last year...
Cliff Sharp, founder of Greenhouse, shared another story about a recipient who had been estranged from family for years. All the fixin's they received led them to invite loved ones over, rekindling what were previously broken family bonds - that were glued back together, over a home-cooked meal...
Food, Family, and Hope - In life, everyone goes through different seasons — some easy, others deeply challenging. What we often don’t see are the private struggles behind someone’s smile... The way something looks on the outside can be misleading; the real story often lies beneath the surface.
For many families, a grocery cart filled with food represents more than just a meal — it’s a moment of hope with the power to reunite and heal.
The annual turkey drive will take place on Friday, November 21, 2025, with the big giveaway on Saturday, November 22. Volunteers will help distribute at least 650 turkeys, over 1,200 cans of green beans, 1,300 boxes of Jell-O, 650 boxes of dressing, and more...
Volunteers Needed - Sanford told WGNS that at least 300 volunteers of all ages and abilities are needed to help with this year’s event...
Anyone who wants to donate food can sign up at GreenhouseMin.org and drop off items on Friday, November 21. The food will be distributed to those who would normally not be able to afford a Thanksfiving meal large enough for both friends and family.
Volunteers will hand out turkeys, hams, and all the side dishes the day after they are collected. The big giveaway will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, between 8 a.m. and 12 noon. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up in advance to help with sorting, packing, or handing out meals...
A Legacy of Service - Founded in 1999 by Cliff and Jane Sharp, Greenhouse Ministries was built on a mission to help people move from hopelessness to hope by recognizing their God-given potential. Over the years, that mission has flourished thanks to community volunteers who dedicate their time to helping others.
In 2024, Greenhouse served 9,183 clients, powered by 26,000 volunteer hours and 10,558 donors who made its many outreach programs possible.
“Every year, we see lives changed,” Sanford said. “It’s more than food — it’s connection, compassion, and community.”
For more information, visit GreenhouseMin.org or call 615-494-0499.
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