Why MVAA Is Asking You to Support the Fayette County Food Bank This Year

This Thursday, November 6, nonprofits across our region will participate in Fayette Gives, a community-wide day of giving that supports organizations serving Fayette County. As a registered nonprofit with a location in Brownsville, the Mon Valley Academy for the Arts (MVAA) is eligible to receive donations through this event — and in a typical year, we would be encouraging you to support our mission.

But this is not a typical year.

Because of the ongoing federal government shutdown, millions of Americans — including many of the students, families, and neighbors we serve — are suddenly facing the loss of SNAP (food stamp) benefits. Food insecurity is rapidly increasing, and local resources are already stretched to their limits.

As an arts organization, we believe deeply in creativity, connection, and community. But we also think this:

No child can practice music on an empty stomach. No family should be forced to choose between groceries and survival.

That is why, in the spirit of true community, we are making an unusual request:

👉 Instead of donating to MVAA on Fayette Gives Day, please make your gift to the Fayette County Community Action Food Bank.

As MVAA President Annette Buffer shared:

“If our community is going to thrive, then all of us — nonprofits included — must be willing to step up, link arms, and support the most urgent needs. Today, that need is food.”

We will continue doing our work — offering affordable, high-quality arts programming to people of all ages — but on November 6, we are prioritizing people over programs. We hope you will join us.

🧡 Donate to the Fayette County Food Bank through Fayette Gives:

https://www.fayettegives.org/organizations/fayette-county-community-action-angency

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