Feeding Southwest Virginia welcomed approximately 60 agency partners from across the region for its annual conference at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.
The 2026 conference, themed “Uniting Communities,” brought together representatives from food pantries and community partners that serve neighbors facing food insecurity throughout Southwest Virginia, including partners from the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Wise, Lee, Scott, Russell, Washington, Smyth, Tazewell, Grayson, Wythe, and Bland.
The Food Bank recognized multiple long-standing partners who have contributed to critical food insecurity work as a part of their network. Recent partners, such as Loaves and Fish in Galax, were recognized for their partnership as well.
Tony Lowe, a representative of Loaves and Fishes – Galax, said, “It’s a wonderful feeling being with people who understand what you are doing and support you. We all have the same vision. We all want to help. Some days it’s hard to see how many people are hungry.”
Attendees participated in educational breakout sessions designed to strengthen their respective operations and improve services for individuals and families facing hunger.
One session, “Feeding Children Year-Round,” highlighted how Feeding Southwest Virginia’s childhood hunger programs work to provide consistent support when school is in session and during school breaks. Participants explored Backpack, School Pantry, and federal nutrition programs to expand their services dedicated to nourishing children.
Jarrett Roberts of agency partner It’s a God Thing in Damascus said, “Teachers I know are noticing more food scarcity from their students, from high school to preschool. It’s helpful to learn more about the options we have for children’s programs to help.”
Attendees were invited to attend an additional session, “Partner Pick-Up Program: Strengthening Donor Relationships,” which examined the critical role of donated food in hunger-relief efforts. The session provided information on the Partner Pick-Up Program, its food sourcing requirements, and best practices for organizing successful food drives.
President and CEO Pamela Irvine, the event’s keynote speaker, shared her last address to the attending agency partners. Irvine will retire in December after 45 years of service.
“It took all of the hands and hearts in this room today to make a difference. Every single one of you plays a vital role in helping us address hunger across the region,” says Pamela Irvine, President and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. she said. “We are always grateful to connect with you, engage this network, and explore ways we can continue to meet the need in Southwest Virginia. We thank you for every food box, every meal, and every bag of groceries you distributed this last year. We could not have such a strong network of support without you.”
These agency partners, a part of a total 275 across Southwest Virginia, contribute to Feeding Southwest Virginia’s mission of nourishing neighbors in need. The Food Bank currently reaches an average of more than 129,000 neighbors a month.
