An Open Letter to the Southern Tier: Thank You for Showing Up When It Mattered Most

I just want to take a moment to say thank you, truly, from the bottom of my heart.

Every year, I’m blown away by the way this community comes together for the Food-a-Bago Food Drive to benefit Broome County CHOW. But this year, you outdid yourselves. Because of you, countless families in the Southern Tier won’t go to bed hungry tonight. That’s powerful.

You Showed Up When It Mattered Most

I know things aren’t easy right now. Groceries, gas, bills, everything costs more than it used to. But even with all of that, you still showed up with boxes and bags filled with food. You gave because you care. You gave because you don’t want your neighbors to go without. And that kind of generosity speaks volumes about the Southern Tier community.

You Proved What “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Really Means

Every year during Food a Bago, I find myself smiling and thinking, “This is what home feels like.” The Southern Tier has such an incredible spirit, one that never hesitates to lend a hand, even when times are tough. That’s something to be proud of.

From My Heart, a Personal Thank You

When I was a kid, life was really hard sometimes. My family often relied on food pantries to get by, and I can still remember standing in those lines, hoping there would be enough when it was our turn. Those memories never leave a person, no matter how their circumstances in life change.

To be on the other side now, to see this community giving so selflessly, it hits me in a way words can’t fully explain. I know exactly what it means to the families who’ll receive this food, because I’ve been there. And it fills me with so much gratitude to know we live in a place where people still show up for each other.

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This Community Has a Heart of Gold

To everyone who donated food, funds, or even just helped spread the word, thank you. You’ve proven once again that the Southern Tier’s heart is bigger than any hardship we face. I’m so proud to share life with people who care this deeply.

With so much love and gratitude,
Traci Taylor