Committed staff drivers who are responsible for the bulk of meal deliveries to MIFA clients in and around Memphis. Sometimes they are the only face the person receiving a meal sees all day.

"Tennessee continues to be a place where we can grow our economy and protect our natural resources at the same time," says Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Commissioner David Salyers.

Partnerships with Regional One Health, UnitedHealthcare, and a local federally qualified health center enable MIFA to increase the reach of its longstanding Meals-on-Wheels program. The collaborations tap MIFA’s expertise while freeing its partners to pursue their own strengths in caring for the people they serve.

Here's a look at the collaborative work that ensures meals are delivered in a timely manner as MIFA runs food service to homes Monday through Wednesday and to 14 area congregate sites Monday through Friday.

“The ABC grant is an ideal entry point for nonprofits to understand our approach to funding and to begin developing a deeper and long-lasting partnership,” says Elizabeth Rouse, President and CEO of ARTSmemphis.

Tafui Owusu spoke with Justin Merrick of the Center for Transforming Communities about the nonprofit's mission, challenges, and the necessity and power of community engagement.