Meredith’s Compassion
Meredith is a long-time, dedicated Feed the Children supporter with a passion for giving back to others. His story echoes the story of many donors: personal and inspiring.
Meredith grew up in a small Arkansas town, one of seven siblings. His father was a farmer, and his mother was a housekeeper. They led by example and instilled a mission of “sharing the good” in him at an early age. Compassion and generosity weren’t simply virtues in their household – they were a way of life.
Their family always supported one another, no matter what. Whether it was a cousin coming over for dinner, or a neighbor who needed to borrow the tractor, Meredith’s parents were always ready to help. Even if they didn’t have a lot to give, it didn’t matter. His father would never turn down someone in need. There was no hesitation, it was just the way their family worked.
The principles of generosity taught by his parents are woven through every part of Meredith’s life. He’s always looking for a way to do good for the people around him. When asked about his reasons for giving, Meredith said that he would tell people, “Let me help. Let me do the little that I can do to put a smile on your face, to let someone know that someone loves you. Someone is thinking of you.”
Meredith is approachable and down-to-earth, the kind of person who will share a meal and a conversation with anybody. He loves to meet people and hear their stories. In his career as a truck driver, the road has taken him all over America. He’s seen real poverty and struggle firsthand, and his experience has given him a deep understanding of the need for compassion and respect for others.
Meredith believes that it’s important not to judge anyone on their circumstances or reasons for needing help. “No matter where you come from in life, someone has helped you. So, you have to remember that. No matter how poor you are, how rich you are, someone has always helped you.” Meredith says that while truckers often have a reputation as tough guys, the reality is more complex. They’re often very compassionate towards children, and many of the truckers he encounters want to give back to the community.
Meredith’s compassion is what makes food and essentials possible for children. When we asked him why he chooses Feed the Children, he told us simply, “I believe in Feed the Children. I believe they do what they say they’re going to do. And I believe that it helps someone that doesn’t have anything or needs assistance.”
Meredith is an everyday hero who chooses to be a part of the solution to end hunger. One person willing to take action, multiplied by many, is how hope happens.
