About SML GIVES INC

Our Story

As the holidays approached in 2021, Joey Donovant wanted to help families facing hunger in Franklin County. He organized a small food drive at Magnum Point Marina, bringing neighbors together to share what they could in an act of community support. At the time, he had no idea how far that kindness would reach.

Year by year, the food drives grew. Donations of food evolved into monetary gifts, transforming the annual effort into a significant community fundraising event. Along the way, Joey recognized the potential to unite people and resources in support of local organizations dedicated to hunger relief for our neighbors every day.

In the summer of 2025, Joey invited friends, neighbors, and business owners to a town hall in Union Hall. They discussed how to establish a lasting source of community support for the region’s nonprofit sector. SML GIVES INC was incorporated in Virginia that June, with its first Board of Directors coming together in August.

What began with a holiday food drive is now progressing toward the Southlake area’s first food pantry and charitable resource center. Through food delivery initiatives, local partnerships, and a commitment to meeting neighbors where they are, SML GIVES INC is dedicated to ensuring that help reaches those in need.

Through donations, community support, food drives, and volunteer opportunities, SML GIVES INC believes that building relationships is fundamental to fostering a strong community and effective hunger relief.

At SML GIVES INC, we believe that everyone has the right to essential nutrition. We understand that life's challenges can sometimes be a barrier to accessing this crucial support. Through our food drives and hunger relief initiatives, we are dedicated to assisting our community in meeting their basic needs.