What's Happening?
Extra Table FEEDS is set to launch its annual 'Give ’Em A Bird' holiday campaign with a public kickoff event on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at The Markham Hotel in Gulfport. The event, presented by Renasant Bank, will feature former Governor Haley Barbour
as the keynote speaker and Chief Justice Mike Randolph offering special remarks. The campaign aims to provide 9,000 Mississippi-grown whole chickens to families for Thanksgiving. Extra Table FEEDS, a statewide nonprofit food bank founded in 2009 by chef Robert St. John, raises funds to purchase and deliver nutritious, shelf-stable food to 70 food pantries and soup kitchens across Mississippi, operating without government funding.
Why It's Important?
This campaign is crucial for addressing food insecurity in Mississippi, particularly during the holiday season when demand for assistance often increases. By aiming to distribute 9,000 Mississippi-grown chickens, Extra Table FEEDS not only provides essential sustenance to families in need but also supports local farmers and the state's agricultural economy. The involvement of prominent figures like former Governor Haley Barbour and Chief Justice Mike Randolph underscores the community-wide importance of this initiative and helps to galvanize public support. The campaign's reliance on private donations highlights the critical role of community and corporate philanthropy in bridging gaps in social welfare services, especially for organizations that do not receive government funding.
What's Next?
The 'Give ’Em A Bird' campaign will continue its fundraising efforts following the kickoff event. Extra Table FEEDS encourages individuals, businesses, and community groups to participate, with a $15 donation providing three whole chickens. The organization will deliver the purchased chickens to its partner food pantries the week before Thanksgiving. Fundraising will extend beyond the initial chicken distribution to ensure food availability throughout the entire holiday season, aiming to prevent any family from facing an empty table. Community members can get involved by donating online at extratable.org/bird or by texting '3birds' to 44321, or by organizing 'texting parties' to spread awareness and encourage donations.
Beyond the Headlines
The 'Give ’Em A Bird' campaign exemplifies a thoughtful approach to charitable giving, evolving from past experiences where large turkeys proved impractical for some food pantries due to storage limitations and diverse family preferences. By switching to whole chickens and prioritizing Mississippi-grown products, Extra Table FEEDS demonstrates an adaptive strategy that maximizes impact and efficiency. This approach not only addresses immediate hunger but also fosters a sense of community self-reliance by supporting local producers. The campaign's emphasis on private funding also highlights the ongoing challenge for non-profits to secure resources independently, showcasing the power of collective action and local engagement in tackling systemic issues like food insecurity.
