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At the kick-off held at the Food Bank’s Elmsford distribution warehouse it was announced that this year’s goal is to raise the funds necessary to provide 5,000 turkeys for families in need.
A donation of $25 provides turkeys for two families. With approximately 200,000 Westchester residents hungry or at risk of being hungry, there is a significant need for meals this holiday season. Last year, the Food Bank exceeded its fundraising goal and was able to provide more than 4,000 turkeys.
“As a community, it is important that we collect as many donations as possible to help out local families and to ensure a memorable Thanksgiving for those who would otherwise go without,” said Ellen Lynch, Food Bank executive director. “Thanks to everyone who supports our holiday turkey drive, a huge burden is lifted off these families’ shoulders.”
“The need is real. However, even though the campaign just started, it’s off to a good start. We have already brought in three truckloads of turkeys this year which is approximately 120,000 pounds.” The need for more turkeys in part is a result of an increase in the number of Food Bank member agencies over the last year, and that more community and faith-based organizations are responding to the increased needs of their local communities. At the same time, the Food Bank is servicing non-member agencies with its Kraft Mobile Food Pantry.
“On Thanksgiving, most families sit down for a family feast. But there are thousands of people in our county who face a daily struggle to put just a little food on the table,” said Food Bank board Chairman Rick Rakow. “The contributions enable us to provide turkeys and other ingredients for a nutritious holiday meal to make it a happy Thanksgiving for all.”
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