All funds raised from the “Dinner for Donations” pot pie fundraiser will be used to support the Single Mom Strong Career Advancement programs for single mothers, and the EmpowerME Pre-School and Childcare programs throughout the coming year. Photo courtesy of Single Mom Strong

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - It’s time for chicken pot pie!

Single Mom Strong’s (SMS) sixth annual “Dinner for Donations” chicken pot pie fundraiser is underway, with preorders being accepted for pickup from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the center, located at 7525 Auburn Blvd., Suite 5, in Citrus Heights.

The annual fundraiser, which benefits Single Mom Strong (SMS) Career Advancement programs for single moms, and the EmpowerME Pre-School and Childcare programs started in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, offers a quick, ready-to-bake, tasty meal for families, said Tara Taylor, its executive director.

Orders must be placed by Monday, Nov. 2. Each pot pie is $25, plus applicable Eventbrite ticketing fees.

Customers who are among the first 25 people to place an order of five or more pot pies will receive free delivery within 20 miles of the center, Taylor said.

“Last year SMS made and distributed 236 individual homemade chicken pot pies and are looking to raise that total count to 250 total pies this year,” she said.

About 40 volunteers, many from local social fraternities and sororities, will use a favorite Single Mom Strong (SMS) recipe to roll out and fill 9-inch, ready-made crusts with a special mix of seasoned, diced chicken and freshly cut vegetable portions in a savory filling and carefully wrap each pie with cooking instructions. Each pie costs $25 and serves three to four people.

“Volunteers with the Sunrise Christian Food Ministry will provide 30 cups of cooked chicken breast which will be used to make our pies,” Taylor said.

“Single Mom Strong is also encouraging customers to purchase an extra pot pie, which can provide a hearty dinner for a single mother’s family,” said Beth Seren, program director.

Last year Single Mom Strong made and distributed 236 individual homemade chicken pot pies and are looking to raise that total count to 250 total pies this year. Photo courtesy of Single Mom Strong

All funds raised from the “Dinner for Donations” pot pie fundraiser will be used to support the Single Mom Strong Career Advancement programs for single mothers, and the EmpowerME Pre-School and Childcare programs throughout the coming year.

To purchase a pot pie, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dinner-for-donations-single-mom-strongs-chicken-pot-pie-fundraiser-tick...

Single Mom Strong (SMS) has also opened its annual Holiday “Adopt-a-Family” program to help single moms in the greater Sacramento area with an expectation to “adopt” at least 90 families this holiday season who could use some extra support.

Registration is open through Nov. 9 for single mothers who are in need and reside in greater Sacramento, Yolo and Solano Counties, Seren said.

“The real need is much greater than ever this year and we truly welcome donations from the entire community.”

Adopted families typically receive a holiday meal, a gift for mom and multiple items of “need” and “want” for each child.

Selected families will be notified no later than Dec. 20, Seren said.

According to Single Mom Strong (SMS), more than 60 volunteers helped 103 families led by single parents in 2025, supporting 239 children through the program. Volunteers also wrapped more than 2,500 gifts during five gift-wrapping events.

In addition, the program received 60 donations of complete family gift packages and more than 100 monetary donations to help brighten the holidays for families led by single mothers.

For more information or to donate to support Single Mom Strong’s annual “Adopt a Family” program visit: https://www.singlemomstrong.org/holiday-adopt-a-family

The mission of Single Mom Strong (SMS) is to empower single mothers and their children through enrichment, encouragement and educational programs.

The Empowerment Center by Single Mom Strong (SMS), and the EmpowerME Preschool & Childcare are located at 7525 Auburn Blvd., Suite 5, Citrus Heights. To learn more information about its programs, call 916-735-5350 or visit singlemomstrong.org.