HUNTSVILLE — On a busy holiday distribution day at Manna House in Huntsville, the pace was relentless.
Volunteers moved quickly, families lined up for food and essentials, and Director Fran Fluhler shifted seamlessly between coordinating operations and offering encouragement to those walking through the doors.
In the middle of the motion, Fluhler paused. She gathered those nearby and offered a prayer for families facing hardship, for safety, and for a peaceful Christmas with food on the table.
The moment captured the heart of Manna House, a place where urgency and compassion exist side by side.
Manna House is the food distribution program of the Huntsville Dream Center, a nonprofit organization serving individuals and families experiencing difficult seasons. Operated largely by volunteers, the organization provides food, clothing, hygiene items, furniture, and seasonal assistance to neighbors across Huntsville.
“We live in one of the most generous communities I’ve ever known,” Fluhler said. “This place brings together people of all ages, cultures, faiths, and backgrounds, all working to meet needs. Sometimes it’s diapers. Sometimes it’s food. Sometimes it’s just a hot meal after chemo or dialysis.
“Whatever that family needs, we want to help meet it.”
Rather than a traditional pantry model, Manna House prioritizes dignity and choice. Families are encouraged to select fresh fruits and vegetables first, followed by fresh or frozen meats, with canned goods offered afterward.
Fluhler said the focus on fresh food is intentional, particularly for seniors and individuals managing serious health conditions.
During the holidays, Manna House expands its efforts through its annual Christmas Blessing program. Families receive food on one side of the building, then line up on the other to select gifts for their children.
Each child receives a book, a stuffed animal, a board game, and a toy, chosen to be meaningful but simple.
“We want parents to be the heroes,” Fluhler said. “If we do too much, they can’t duplicate it next year. We want to help in a way that strengthens families, not replaces them.”
Beyond food and gifts, Fluhler said Manna House is about connection. Many volunteers once stood in line themselves. Now healed and stable, they return to serve others walking through similar challenges.
“This is a place where relationships are built,” she said. “People find others who understand what they’re going through, and that matters.”
Manna House operates year round and relies on community support to continue its work. Those interested in donating or volunteering can find more information online and are encouraged to get involved in whatever capacity they are able.
“It’s so easy to volunteer, you don’t sign up. You just show up. You might come for 30 minutes. You might stay an hour, hour and a half,” said Fluhler. “Come down and help, make a place for an hour and do it once a week and build relationships. And now you’ve got a tribe.”
Fluhler said there are volunteer opportunities year-round. To make a donation or for more information about Manna House, visit mymannahouse.com.
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