June Share the Plate Partner is The Belonging Fund
Our community’s strength lies in its diversity and the invaluable contributions of those who have chosen to make Nashville their home. Immigrants enrich our culture, bolster our economy, and strengthen the bonds that connect us all. Yet many face unexpected challenges that threaten their stability and well-being.
The Belonging Fund was established by the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, Conexión Americas, and Tennessee Justice For Our Neighbors, in conjunction with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, and will be used to support families impacted by civil immigration enforcement operations in Middle Tennessee that began on May 4, 2025, and are ongoing. This fund will be responsive and evolving to the community's needs as determined by the founding organizations and will be flexible to adjust to the shifting policy landscape.
The Belonging Fund provides financial support to nonprofit organizations offering emergency assistance to immigrants in our region during times of crisis. These funds are intended for direct aid to individuals and families through partner organizations and will not be utilized for organizational administrative costs.
Whether it’s housing instability, child care, transportation, food insecurity, or other urgent needs, the fund ensures support is available when it’s needed most. Nonprofit partners may recommend an immigrant family in need and receive funds to share with them during a time of crisis.
In addition, donations to the fund are made possible solely by individual donors and private organizations - no government dollars are included. That means no taxpayer dollars are being used in the administration or distribution of this fund.
Rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to feel secure, valued, and supported, The Belonging Fund provides a safety net for those facing hardship. It upholds the values of compassion and inclusion that make our city a place where everyone belongs.
The fund’s name is drawn from Imagine Nashville, a citywide visioning effort where belonging emerged as one of our most deeply shared community values. Seventy-five percent of Nashville’s Hispanic neighbors expressed a strong sense of belonging and connection in the community. This fund exists to protect and extend that feeling, especially in moments of fear or uncertainty.
Your contribution to The Belonging Fund is a commitment to the idea that when immigrants thrive, our entire community thrives. Thank you for giving generously to Share the Plate this month.
