On December 20, two Gen Z Nashville natives decided that before they unwrapped their own gifts five days later, they would make certain to give some out to those in need first.
Jalesa (Jai) Hampton, 26, and Tyrese Hobbs, 26, hosted “A Merry Meet Up,” a gathering for Nashvillians to collect, donate, and wrap blankets, toiletries, and clothing items.
What began as a quick trip to Macy’s to purchase a few comforter sets that were on sale to hand out to the unhoused population has turned into something even more impactful. In 2023, Jai shared the opportunity on social media, inviting others to join her in distributing blankets across the Nashville area and welcoming monetary donations from those who wanted to support the effort. Amongst those who provided donations was Tyrese Hobbs, who later joined Jai in hand-delivering these blankets.
The next year, it was a no-brainer for Jai that this work would continue. She took to social media again, this time with a flyer and a title for this initiative, The Winter Blanket Drive.
2024 exceeded 2023’s donations tenfold with more donations, participation, and even local organizations coming together to offer donations and help. With this additional funding, they were able to purchase additional toiletry items, quilted blankets, non-perishable food items, and a handwritten word of encouragement. They drove around the city once again, and gave to those in need.
After two wildly successful years of The Winter Blanket Drive, Jai decided in 2025, she was switching up the tempo.
Jai’s why is simple: “I have always valued creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected, and giving back to the city I grew up in felt like a natural extension of those values. I have a desire to care for members of our community who are often overlooked, especially during the colder months and holiday season.”
She wanted the 2025 initiative to have a higher focus on community engagement – with folks from all over Nashville to physically come together taking shared ownership in the name of giving back.
In walks The Merry Meet Up.
With an atmosphere decked out top to bottom with Christmas-themed decor, joyful music, light refreshments, and cheerful energy, people gathered right here in the city and participated in a Santa’s Workshop-style assembly line. They brought and assembled donations, including toiletry items, hygiene products, blankets, toys, and clothing.
This event was a holiday hit. People from all generations came out and collectively contributed, connected, and were a part of something bigger than themselves.
The impact was beautiful. “We had a strong turnout, and even had people who weren’t initially involved in the event come in out of curiosity and chose to participate,” says Jai.
By the end of the event, they collected approximately 75 gift bags, sharing them with local organizations, including Hope Kids Tennessee, and Home Street Home Ministries.
But the impact goes past physical items: “Beyond the numbers, what stood out to me was the energy in the room — people were genuinely excited to contribute, connect, and be part of something meaningful together.”
The Merry Meet Up is an example of what can happen when one single idea, paired with action, changes lives.
“I believe real change starts with how you show up. When you lead with integrity, care, and intention, it creates a ripple effect that invites others to get involved and be part of something bigger than themselves.”
Gen Z has never strayed from standing up for what’s right, and people like Jai and Tyrese are leading the charge.
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Excellent idea! Hats off to thesw two young adults who care about others! May their project continue to grow with enthusiasm and service to others!