Grandma’s Hands
About Our Founder
Her desire to serve others eventually led to the creation of Grandma’s Hands, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and feeding seniors in the Savannah community.
From Creativity to Calling
From an early age, Shannon McAdams was drawn to creativity and service. She enjoyed styling hair as a young girl and was equally inspired by the love, hospitality, and cooking traditions she witnessed from her mother and grandmother.
After graduating from A.E. Beach Senior High School, Shannon pursued her interest in cosmetology by enrolling in hairstyling courses at Savannah Technical College. Although she initially hoped to study culinary arts as well, those classes were unavailable at the time. She went on to build a successful career as a hairstylist, working in the profession for more than a decade and spending a brief period living in Atlanta.
Over time, Shannon’s passion for cooking led her down a new path. For more than 15 years, she has owned and operated The Southern Palate, a Savannah-based catering company known for its exceptional food, warm hospitality, and commitment to quality. Through dedication and word-of-mouth referrals, the business has earned opportunities to serve organizations, businesses, community events, and special occasions throughout the region.
The Heart Behind Grandma’s Hands
Inspired by the values instilled in her by her grandmother, Grace McIvery, and her mother, Clara McAdams, Shannon continues to honor family traditions through food. The recipes, techniques, and Southern hospitality she learned growing up remain at the heart of everything she does.
What began as a passion for cooking evolved into a mission of caring for elderly individuals who may be living alone, facing physical challenges, or struggling with food insecurity.
Shannon’s Guiding Philosophy
Through both The Southern Palate and Grandma’s Hands, Shannon’s work is shaped by a set of enduring values that keep community and dignity at the center of everything she does.
Quality Over Quantity
Rather than focusing on rapid expansion, Shannon has always believed in providing exceptional service and memorable experiences. Her philosophy is simple: quality matters more than quantity.
Dignity in Service
Shannon remains committed to ensuring that Savannah’s seniors experience the care, dignity, and compassion they deserve, through every meal served and every connection made.
Community at the Center
Through both her catering company and her nonprofit, Shannon is steadfast in her commitment to enriching lives and strengthening community connections across Savannah.
Shannon Today
Today, Shannon balances her roles as a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and community advocate. In addition to her culinary work, she enjoys learning about art, reading, and restoring homes.
Yet no matter where her interests take her, she always returns to the kitchen, a place where she can combine her love for food, service, and community.
Through both The Southern Palate and Grandma’s Hands, Shannon remains committed to enriching lives, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that Savannah’s seniors experience the care, dignity, and compassion they deserve.
Shannon McAdams
Founder, Grandma’s Hands
Owner, The Southern Palate
Wife • Mother • Community Advocate
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Join the Mission Shannon Started
Moved by Shannon’s story? Help Grandma’s Hands continue its work supporting and feeding seniors throughout the Savannah community.
