Gift Will Support Produce Program and Volunteer Efforts at more than 30 Food Banks Across the Country
The Walt Disney Company today announced a contribution of $1 million to Feeding America® to support efforts to rescue and distribute more produce to children and families who need it most. The funds will be distributed to more than 30 Feeding America network member food banks throughout the U.S. to improve access to nutritious foods, including produce. In addition, the donation will help food banks to host volunteer food packing events with Disney (employee) VoluntEARS in select local markets.
“We know the people we serve are making difficult tradeoffs to survive and that produce is one of the most requested items at our food banks,” said Blake Thompson, chief supply chain officer at Feeding America. “We are committed to expanding our fresh produce offerings to food banks, and Disney is helping us nourish and strengthen the families we serve.”
Feeding America is the nation’s largest hunger-relief and food rescue organization with a network of 200 member food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs. The organization’s goal is to provide meals for people in need, but also to provide nutritious meals that can help improve health and well-being. Fresh produce provides a tremendous opportunity to both feed people facing hunger and also offer nutrient-rich foods that can improve health outcomes.
Disney has worked with Feeding America to support efforts to end hunger in the U.S. since 2012. Funding from this year’s gift will be used by food banks to provide fresh produce to kids and families facing hunger by removing barriers to source and distribute produce, including building capacity by increasing refrigeration and equipment at food banks to help store and distribute fresh produce within the community.
To learn about volunteer opportunities at your local Feeding America food bank, visit FeedingAmerica.org/volunteer.
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About Feeding America
Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America unites the country ensuring everyone has access to food and a thriving future. We support tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs. Powered by leaders and volunteers embedded in local communities, we are one of the nation’s most effective food distribution systems driving immediate impact today—and a catalyst for long-term change through advocating for legislation that improves food security and work to address its factors. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters united with the unwavering commitment to provide nourishing food and work to end hunger at its roots so everyone can live fuller, healthier lives. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.