On September 15, we invited supporters to sit down with Blue Ridge Area Food Bank CEO Michael McKee and Director of Partner Engagement Tyler Herman for an in-depth discussion of the Food Bank’s work over the past half-year. Did you miss the virtual event, or are you looking for a high-level recap? Check out this list of six key takeaways, then access the full forum recording below.
#1: COVID-19 didn’t only create a health and economic crisis; it worsened a preexisting hunger emergency.
Before the pandemic hit, hunger rates in America were already soaring: Last year, the Food Bank served an average of 120,000 neighbors on a monthly basis. After the coronavirus gained footing, this count skyrocketed, peaking at 130,000 this past spring. And many of our clients are seeking help for the first time in their lives—largely due to the drastic surge in unemployment. (Since March, more than 155,000 unemployment claims have been filed in our area.) But despite the surge in recent months, we’ve been able to stand firm and continue showing up for our neighbors in need—thanks to the commitment of community partners, volunteers, donors, and staff.
#2: Without the unwavering dedication of our network, squaring up against hunger during a pandemic wouldn’t have been possible.
Since the onset of the pandemic, our community partners have exhibited courage and selflessness. Day in and day out, they’ve put their wellbeing on the line to continue helping their neighbors receive nutritious food. And the proof of our network’s resilience is in the numbers: At the crisis’ climax, only 8% of our 203 partner pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters closed down. Today, that number sits at just 3%. Thanks to our partners’ flexibility, determination, and compassion, the Food Bank hasn’t had to organize superdistributions to keep food flowing. Although the scene at food pantries certainly looks different these days (low- and no-touch models reign supreme), we’ve been able to maintain and foster the strong community ties that make our network such a healthy one.
#3: Just as our partners have been helping neighbors in need, we’ve been doing our best to help them.
As a Food Bank, we’ve made it a priority to nourish our network by distributing resources, information, tools, and funds where they’re most needed. For example, we’ve provided pre-packed boxes and bags (both purchased and volunteer-assembled) to partner pantries, in addition to loads of personal protective equipment. We’ve shared 120,000 face coverings, as well as hand sanitizer, to protect clients and volunteers alike. We’ve also taken on more than $3 million in food costs, partly as a result of waiving partner food fees. And finally, we’ve awarded $220,000 in grants to partners this year alone. Through our Agency Capacity Fund, we’ve helped partners acquire everything from freezers to shelving.
#4: Together, we’ve moved mountains—but charities alone cannot shoulder the weight of this crisis.
Indeed, the amount of energy our staff, supporters, and volunteers have funneled toward our vision—that everyone should have enough to eat—has been nothing short of inspiring. But we know that if we’re going to outlast the long-term consequences of this public-health and economic emergency, it’s going to take more than charitable action. Government support is crucial moving forward, and without it, food banks run the risk of their resources being exhausted and their networks being overwhelmed. We’ve asked Congress to reinstate temporary unemployment benefits to protect workers laid off or furloughed as a result of the pandemic, and we’re pushing for a 15% increase in SNAP benefits.
To learn more about the Food Bank’s core beliefs, read our Public Priority Statement and subscribe to receive Advocacy Alerts.
#5: Although it’s tough to plan with 100% certainty, we’re setting our sights on an optimistic future by shaping our focus for the fall.
Our mission remains the same: We aim to provide nourishing food to our neighbors in need through vibrant community partnerships and passionate public support. But to meet the need in all corners of our service area, we’ll need to hone in on some specific priorities. In addition to serving neighbors with unique needs—including seniors, children, immigrants, and refugees—our goal is to acquire and distribute more nutritious food and build up our community partners along the way.
#6: The ripple effects of COVID-19 could be felt for months—even years—to come. But you can help us lift up the community during this difficult time.
We’re living through an era marked by need that most of us have never seen—but the outpouring of community support we’ve experienced in the past half-year has been awe-inspiring and uplifting. And you can help us keep up the good work moving forward.
Financial support gives us the flexibility to act quickly. Every $1 donated helps provide 4 meals. Looking to rally your friends and family around a common cause? Organize a food or fund drive to benefit the Food Bank. You can also give the gift of your time by volunteering, either for the Food Bank or one of our partner pantries near you. Finally, help us mobilize our community at large: Share the facts about hunger and encourage your connections to join you in the fight against it.