The Edison Apartments Brings Holiday Food Support to Residents through City of Memphis Partnership

December 12, 2025

Yesterday was a meaningful day at The Edison Apartments in downtown Memphis. With the help of Property Manager Brenda Taylor-Chandler, her dedicated team, community volunteers—including students from East High School, Edison residents, and friends—as well as the City of Memphis and Operation Christmas Basket, more than 100 food boxes were distributed to elderly and low-income residents just ahead of the holidays.

Edison Park is one of our largest apartment communities, so organizing an effort like this takes thoughtful coordination and a lot of heart. We sat down with Brenda to learn why this partnership matters so deeply to her and how initiatives like this continue to strengthen the sense of community at The Edison.

Q&A with Brenda Taylor-Chandler, Property Manager at The Edison

  1. You’ve always been deeply committed to your residents. What does this food box partnership with the City of Memphis mean to you personally?

The ability to make a positive impression or impact on someone’s life—from helping prospects find the perfect apartment to call home, to connecting residents with community resources, having a mobile grocer on site twice a month, and partnering with the City of Memphis—are just some of the ways we show that we care. This means a lot to me personally because it creates opportunities for my staff and me to engage with the community and give back.

  1. How do you see this program impacting the seniors and families who call The Edison home—especially during the holiday season?

The holiday season is the perfect time to show acts of kindness and give back. Many areas in Memphis struggle with food insecurity, and the rising cost of food has made basic necessities unaffordable for some families. When we notified residents about this event, we were met with so much excitement. Being able to help ease food insecurity—especially during the holidays—by providing a food box is truly priceless.

  1. What made you want to bring this opportunity to The Edison specifically? Was there a moment when you realized it would really make a difference here?

My partnership with the City of Memphis began three years ago. Seeing how grateful families were, and how they looked forward to the program returning each year, brought me so much joy. Because of that experience, I decided to continue the tradition and introduce it to residents at The Edison, with hopes that it would have the same positive impact here.

  1. The Edison has a unique sense of community. How do events like this strengthen the connections between neighbors—and between residents and staff?

Community engagement events allow residents to connect, build relationships, and support one another. To me, these events are simply another facet of customer service. They allow residents to see us beyond the traditional landlord-tenant relationship. By offering a variety of engagement opportunities, our staff can form stronger bonds with residents, which ultimately increases satisfaction, strengthens the sense of community, and supports long-term resident retention.

  1. If you could share one thing with the community about why this partnership matters, what would it be?

Showing acts of kindness, compassion, and giving a little of your time doesn’t cost a thing. Many people face challenges that we may not see or know about. Small acts of kindness can go a long way and truly make a meaningful impression in someone’s life.

Moments like this remind us that community is built through consistency, compassion, and showing up for one another. Thanks to Brenda Taylor-Chandler, her team, and the partners who made this event possible, The Edison continues to be a place where residents are supported not just with housing, but with care and connection—especially when it matters most.

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