What started as a simple idea to help neighbors in need has quickly become a meaningful tradition at Presbyterian Village North (PVN). Near the end of 2025 the community gathered for its second annual food drive and meal-packing event continuing a partnership with Our Calling, a Dallas-based nonprofit serving individuals experiencing homelessness across DFW.
The event was organized and facilitated by PVN’s Culture Committee which helped guide the flow of the day and keep spirits high. Preparation began weeks before a single sandwich was made. During a two-week period residents and teammates filled donation bins with the essential items needed to create packed lunches. The steady stream of contributions demonstrated the resident’s commitment to service and a willingness to show up for others beyond the PVN campus.
When packing day arrived the auditorium buzzed with activity. Tables filled quickly as residents and teammates took their places working side by side to assemble lunches. Music set an upbeat tone and friendly competition kept the momentum going as teams worked to out-pack one another. By the end of the event more than 600 meals were ready to be shared.
“It is not lost on us how blessed we are to call PVN home whether that be for work or to live. The residents and teammates here are so generous and servant-hearted and always willing to give their time to serve not just those that live here but people in need beyond our walls,” shared Estee Cahani Director of Rehabilitation for PVN.
Shortly after the final lunches were packed representatives from Our Calling arrived to collect the meals. From there, the nonprofit’s team took on the work of delivering the lunches directly to unsheltered individuals throughout the Dallas Fort Worth area.
While the impact of each meal reaches far beyond campus, the experience itself left a lasting impression on those who participated serving as a reminder that service can be both meaningful and joyful.
Through events like this PVN continues to strengthen its culture of generosity. The ongoing collaboration with Our Calling not only helps meet an immediate need but also reinforces the power of community coming together to make a difference one lunch at a time.
