BRATTLEBORO-Project Feed the Thousands, the community-driven initiative that has helped feed local families for over three decades, has launched its 31st annual campaign with a goal of raising $120,000 in cash donations to combat food insecurity in the region.
The campaign, which began in 1993 with a goal of feeding 1,000 community members, has grown exponentially to meet the increasing needs of local families. This year's campaign holds special significance as the organization mourns the loss of co-founder George Haynes, whose legacy continues to inspire the mission of ensuring no one in the community goes hungry.
"Thirty-one years ago, George Haynes and I had no idea this campaign would be so successful. We also had no idea that so many people in our area deal with food insecurity," Larry Smith, co-founder of Project Feed the Thousands, said in a news release. "I urge everyone to join our campaign and make a donation. No one in our community should go to bed hungry."
The reality of food insecurity in the region has become increasingly stark. "Food insecurity is real and it's right here in our own backyards," said co-chair Kelli Corbeil, "Together, donating to Project Feed, we can help to ensure all our neighbors have food on their table. That's what Project Feed the Thousands is all about, it's neighbors helping neighbors in need."
"People are making choices to gas their car, heat their house, or feed their family. Times are more difficult than ever," said co-chair John Sciacca. "Demand has doubled and tripled at local food shelves in the past few years. So, it's more important now than ever to help out in any capacity that you are able."
"Here in Vermont, 1 in 7 children face hunger every day," said Chris Thayer, director of branch operations at the Vermont Foodbank. "Individually, we can do very little, but together we can make a difference."
As an all-volunteer organization with no overhead costs, Project Feed the Thousands ensures that every dollar donated goes directly to helping local food shelves purchase food at reduced rates from the Vermont Food Bank.
The campaign benefits multiple local organizations including Groundworks Food Shelf, St. Brigid's Kitchen, and Loaves and Fishes Community Kitchen in Brattleboro; Guilford Cares Food Pantry in Guilford; Bread of Life Food Pantry in Vernon; Hinsdale Food Pantry in Hinsdale, New Hampshire; Our Place Drop-In Center in Bellows Falls; Putney Food Shelf; and the Townshend Community Food Shelf.
Community members can support the campaign by making tax-deductible donations online at projectfeedthethousands.org or by mail. Donors can designate specific food shelves to receive their contributions.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.