Report: Food Gatherers “donors raised more than 1 million meals during Rockin’ for the Hungry, Food Gatherers’ largest fundraiser of the year.
Donations will help provide groceries and meals to food-insecure families and individuals in Washtenaw County.
Following is additional information on this initiative, sent to Saline Journal.
“ann arbor’s 107one, Kroger, and Food Gatherers successfully raised the equivalent of 1,285,563 meals for Washtenaw County during the Rockin’ for the Hungry fund drive.
During the 5-day virtual fund drive, Food Gatherers received donations of food and funds from community members to help provide free groceries and meals to support Washtenaw County residents facing food insecurity.
‘Since the start of the pandemic, many more of our neighbors have turned to their local food pantries for help, some for the first time,’ said Eileen Spring, President and CEO of Food Gatherers. ‘Even as the economy reopens, we are still seeing increased food insecurity. Food Gatherers’ is grateful to everyone who donated to help keep plates and cupboards full.’
Donations made during Rockin’ for the Hungry support Food Gatherers’ food bank and food rescue program. Food Gatherers partners with more than 170 programs and agencies to distribute food throughout Washtenaw County. In fiscal year 2021, Food Gatherers distributed more than 9 million pounds of food.
Thousands of donors, including individuals, students, businesses, and non-profits stepped up to express their support by donating food and funds. Ann arbor’s 107one DJs promoted the food and fund drive via a live broadcast. Interviews with community partners and sponsors can be viewed on Food Gatherers’ Facebook page. Generous donations from the Harold and Kay Peplau Family Fund, Kroger, and other community sponsors, matched Rockin’ donations. In an impressive show of determination, Community High School students raised more than $77,000, which was then matched 1:1!
Food Gatherers believes that a healthy community starts with reliable access to nutritious food, and that by working together, Washtenaw County residents can build a more equitable and food secure future for all our neighbors ….
