On a chilly Saturday morning, volunteers braved the rain to help with the 34th Annual Bread of Life Food Drive at Monsignor Farrell High School in Oakwood, Staten Island. This year’s drive ran from March 31 to April 7, inspiring students from 131 schools across the borough to gather non-perishable food donations for those in need.
The Notre Dame Club of Staten Island has been the driving force behind this initiative since its launch in 1992 with just six schools. Fast forward to today, the food drive has become a symbol of charity in Staten Island, showcasing the power of community spirit.
During this year’s event, volunteers distributed the collected items to various local nonprofit organizations, including Project Hospitality, Catholic Charities, and the Salvation Army. These groups provide essential services to thousands of residents facing food insecurity.
Joe Delaney, executive director of the Notre Dame Club of Staten Island, highlighted the drive’s growth in a recent interview. “I’m proud to say that the Bread of Life Food Drive has expanded beyond Staten Island,” he stated. “We now have drives in 320 cities across 35 states, and every time we reach a new location, we stamp it: ‘Made in Staten Island.’”
This year’s drive has donated over 2.5 million food items since its inception, showing how local efforts can multiply and make a difference. Students of various ages participated in every stage of the process—from collecting donations to packing them for delivery—demonstrating the value of community service.
Recent statistics about hunger remind us why these initiatives are crucial. According to Feeding America, more than 41 million people in the U.S. face food insecurity, a number that includes 13 million children. Programs like the Bread of Life Food Drive play a vital role in addressing this urgent issue.
Community reactions to the event have been overwhelmingly positive, with many taking to social media to express their pride in participating. Local residents frequently mention how initiatives like this help them feel connected and motivated to support their neighbors.
The recent Bread of Life Food Drive illustrates how collective efforts can spark change. As the need for assistance continues to grow, the willingness of Staten Islanders to come together stands as a testament to human compassion.
Here’s a list of organizations that benefited from this year’s donations:
- Project Hospitality
- Catholic Charities
- The Salvation Army
- St. Edward’s Church
- St. Peter’s Church
- Community Health Action
Events like the Bread of Life Food Drive not only provide immediate relief but also strengthen the fabric of the community, inspiring acts of kindness and service that can echo through generations.
For more details, visit the official Notre Dame Club of Staten Island page.
Check out this related article: Lessons Learned from Avarie’s Tragic Death in Rome: Bridging the Gaps in Food Allergy Awareness and Education
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