Dear Friends of Manna,
Many of you know and care about Blanche Hall, aka Miss Blanche, aka Miss Sunshine, who retired after 16 years serving the community as a Manna Food Center employee. Last Thursday we learned that her home, Friendly Gardens Apartment, where she lived with her son Glen, was devastated by a tragic explosion and fire. All things considered Blanche is doing well. She was discharged from the hospital and staying with one of her sons for now. The Hall family has been a part of that community since the 70s and Blanche was a beloved member of it. In 2017 she was even awarded a Good Neighbor Award during National Night Out at the nearby Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center.
During her time at Manna, Blanche was a fixture at the Gaithersburg warehouse, greeting each person who came through those doors as an old friend, indeed she knew many of them by name. It wasn’t unusual to see her crying or laughing with people as they shared updates on their lives since they’d been there last.
Although retired, Blanche is still the matriarch of the Manna family. Many of her co-workers still call her Mom. As we know, Blanche is one tough cookie but right now she could use the support of the community she cares so much about.
We know many will want to know how they can provide support during this difficult time. If you would like to provide some financial assistance to Blanche and her son as they begin to replace all their clothing, furniture and other necessities, please use the donate button at the top of the page.
Thank you