As the season of gratitude approaches, McGuffey Healthcare is once again rallying the Gadsden community to give back in a big way. The Cornucopia of Care Food Drive—now in its second year—returns with a mission as heartfelt as it is essential: to help local seniors who struggle with food insecurity enjoy a holiday season filled with nourishment, comfort, and connection.
A Harvest of Compassion
Last year’s inaugural Cornucopia of Care drive exceeded all expectations. What began as a simple idea among McGuffey’s leadership team—to fill grocery bags for older adults—blossomed into a true community movement. Staff, residents, families, and local partners came together, contributing hundreds of pounds of non-perishable foods and thoughtful extras to brighten the holidays for Gadsden’s seniors.
“This initiative really touched people’s hearts,” said April Conley, Administrator at McGuffey Healthcare. “We saw firsthand how much good can happen when a community comes together with compassion and purpose. Many of the seniors we reached out to live alone or have limited mobility. Receiving a gift of food and a kind note reminded them they haven’t been forgotten.”
The 2025 campaign aims to build on that success. From October 6 through November 20, McGuffey Healthcare will be accepting donations of shelf-stable foods in the main lobby at 2301 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden. Suggested items include canned meats and vegetables, soups, pasta, rice, shelf-stable milk, packaged cornbread and desserts, and gravy.
Reaching Those Who Need It Most
Food insecurity among older adults is a growing concern across Alabama. According to Feeding America, more than 10% of seniors in the state face uncertainty about where their next meal will come from. Rising food prices, limited transportation, and fixed incomes can make it difficult for many to maintain a balanced diet.
For McGuffey Healthcare, the Cornucopia of Care drive isn’t just a once-a-year gesture—it’s part of a broader commitment to caring for seniors beyond its own walls. “We believe that quality of life doesn’t stop at our campus,” said Sharon Baker, Vice President of Business Development. “The wellbeing of the elders in our city matters to us deeply. This drive gives us a way to extend our care and compassion to neighbors who may not have a support network.”
Delivering Holiday Joy
In the week leading up to Thanksgiving, McGuffey’s team—joined by volunteers from partner organizations and local churches—will assemble and deliver the food to senior households and community centers. Each package will be carefully curated to provide both essentials and small comforts.
For many recipients, the delivery itself becomes a meaningful moment of connection. “Sometimes it’s the smile at the door or a quick conversation that means as much as the food,” noted Ms. Baker. “Our volunteers come back with stories that stay with them all year long.”
How to Get Involved
Community participation is the heart of Cornucopia of Care. There are several ways to help make this year’s drive a success:
- Donate food items at McGuffey Healthcare between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily through November 20.
- Host a collection box at your business, church, or school. Contact McGuffey for pickup support.
A Shared Mission of Hope
As McGuffey Healthcare prepares for another season of giving, the message remains simple but powerful: caring for others strengthens the entire community. The Cornucopia of Care Food Drive demonstrates that even small acts of generosity—one can, one box, one smile—can grow into a bountiful harvest of hope.
“Last year reminded us that kindness multiplies,” said Ms. Conley. “Every donor, every volunteer, every person who helped spread the word became part of something bigger. We can’t wait to see what our community will accomplish together this year.”
About McGuffey Healthcare
McGuffey Healthcare is a leading skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Gadsden, Alabama, dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care for residents and supporting wellness throughout the community.
To donate or learn more about the 2nd Annual Cornucopia of Care Food Drive, call 256-543-3467 or follow McGuffey Healthcare on Facebook for updates and photos throughout the campaign.
