City Harvest has kicked off its 29th annual ‘Feed Our Kids Food Drive,’ addressing the urgent issue of child hunger in New York City. This initiative runs from May 11 to June 15, aiming to deliver nutritious food to families during the summer, when access to free school meals typically declines.
A recent report highlights a staggering statistic: one in four children in NYC faces food insecurity. Families make over a million visits each month to food pantries and soup kitchens, illustrating the critical need for support.
"Almost two-thirds of families with children are struggling financially," says Jilly Stephens, CEO of City Harvest. She emphasizes the importance of this drive, especially as demand for food assistance reaches record levels amid rising living costs.
Last year’s drive successfully gathered over 150,000 pounds of food, providing free meals across all five boroughs. This year, City Harvest is focusing on items like canned fruits and vegetables, peanut butter, soups, and cereals, which are especially needed.
Donations can be made in person at firehouses, police stations, or through schools. For those preferring a virtual option, the #GiveHealthy initiative allows donations to be ordered online and delivered directly to City Harvest.
Local sponsors, like Goya Foods, are getting involved too. They are donating 40,000 pounds of products, helping to ensure that families have access to essential meals. Goya’s national director of Public Relations, Rafael Toro, remarked on the importance of nourishing families, especially during the summer months.
City agencies are also joining the effort. Fire Commissioner Robert S. Tucker highlighted that providing healthy food for children is crucial for the city’s future.
In a world where food insecurity can feel overwhelming, initiatives like this are vital. They not only address immediate needs but also foster community support and resilience. To learn more about supporting this essential cause, you can visit the Feed Our Kids Food Drive page.
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