Cal-Maine donation brings hope to the Delta as food pantries prepare for winter
Sometimes hope comes wrapped in eggshells — fragile, but strong enough to hold good.
Cal-Maine Foods, Inc., the nation’s largest producer and marketer of shell eggs, has donated 10,800 dozen eggs to the Mississippi Food Network and Extra Table, with part of the shipment headed to food pantries serving the Mississippi Delta — including both the Leland Food Pantry and TCOTLG’s Fruits of Love Community Outreach & Services.
Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson joined Cal-Maine representatives and nonprofit leaders at a recent announcement, calling the effort a timely boost as winter approaches.
“It’s up to all of us to stand in the gap for those in need,” Gipson said. “Cal-Maine has set a great example with this generous donation.”
Local agencies say those eggs are already reaching families.
At the Leland Food Pantry, director Nancy Jo said the donation arrived at exactly the right moment.
“These eggs are a blessing,” she said. “Families are doing everything they can to stretch meals right now.”
Supporting Local Families Year-Round
The Leland Food Pantry continues its long-standing commitment to serving families three days a week, offering emergency food assistance, pantry staples, and household essentials. Beginning in 2025/2026, the pantry is launching its new Fresh & Healthy Campaign, an initiative focused on expanding access to fresh produce, protein-rich staples, and nutrition resources for Leland families. The campaign reflects the pantry’s dedication to supporting both everyday needs and long-term community health.
On the east side of town, TCOTLG’s Fruits of Love Community Garden also continues its year-round mission of community support. The garden — which includes raised beds, an outdoor classroom, and accessibility features — will host its 4th Annual Winter Fest on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. at 911 E. Third St.
Winter Fest provides fresh produce, pantry staples, and household essentials to local residents in a welcoming, community-building environment. The event reflects the garden’s ongoing work to support families through education, nutrition, and access.
Statewide Context
Ryn Laster, Cal-Maine’s Director of Food Safety and Animal Welfare, said the company wanted to support its home state during a time when many families face rising food costs.
“We’re headquartered here, and we try to give back as much as we possibly can,” she said.
Statewide, the need is significant: according to the Mississippi Food Network, one in five Mississippians experiences food insecurity. Eggs provide an important source of affordable protein, vitamins, and minerals — especially valuable during the colder months when demand increases.
But back in Leland, the table is set for all.
