Governor Kathy Hochul announced actions taking place across New York State in recognition of Hunger Action Month.
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It is observed each September to raise awareness about food insecurity and to encourage people to take part in the fight against hunger.
This month marks several milestones for the State's Nourish New York initiative, which was launched during the pandemic to get more food to people in need while supporting New York farmers.
The program has now helped food banks purchase over 50 million pounds of New York farm products, putting nearly 50 million meals on the table for families facing food insecurity.
Many of New York State's 10 regional food banks are each recognizing Hunger Action Month in their own way this month, giving New Yorkers a great opportunity to get involved on the ground in their own communities.
Planned activities include a series of food distributions, food drives, and other community events to support their hunger relief missions.
Some examples include:
Food Bank of the Southern Tier is hosting the "Leader of the Pack" fundraiser and virtual food drive, which brings local businesses together to raise funds for the Food Bank of the Southern Tier.
Participating corporate partner teams compete to pack the most backpacks in the fastest time while also collecting the most contributions through their custom virtual store.
Foodlink cohosted a media event with Congressman Joseph Morelle to advocate for federal anti-hunger legislation, such as Universal School Meals and the Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act, earlier this month.
Foodlink's annual fall fundraiser, the Festival of Food, also returned to the city's Public Market for the first time since 2019.
Island Harvest released an interactive Hunger Action Month calendar with events and ideas for how people can raise awareness and get involved locally in the fight against food insecurity, including a month-long "Build a Box" food drive activity.
Long Island Cares - The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank is partnering with the Hauppauge Industrial Association of Long Island to mark Hunger Action Day. Several corporations that are members of the HIALI have donated $10.00 per employee to support Long Island Cares and will gather together on Hunger Action Day for a group photo. ■