Greater Somerset County YMCA is responding to the dramatic surge in requests for food assistance during the COVID-19 crisis by partnering with Nourishing Neighbors ACME Markets Foundation.
Greater Somerset County YMCA received a $73,490 grant from the Help Feed Kids and Families Program to fight hunger during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond. The campaign is part of ACME’s Nourishing Neighbors Community Relief Initiative.
At the onset of the pandemic, Greater Somerset County YMCA recognized the rapid rise in food insecurity among local residents and quickly mobilized to help. The Y convened volunteers, food donations and collaborations with community partners in a collective rally to address the urgent need. Through the Y’s food security project over 1.3 million meals have been distributed since March to local residents who struggle with food insecurity, according to information provided by the Y.
“We are seeing an unprecedented demand for food assistance as the pandemic takes an economic and emotional toll on people throughout our community,” President and CEO of Greater Somerset County YMCA David Carcieri said in the statement. “We’re grateful that the ACME Markets Foundation stepped up to help us feed vulnerable neighbors. We are proud to help the community during this time of uncertainty and grateful for the support of all our volunteers, donors, members and partners.”
ACME’s Nourishing Neighbors Community Relief Initiative was established to help local families impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and beyond. All funds are used to address the emergency in the following ways:
- Keep food banks stocked so they can respond to increased demand
- Support emergency meal distribution programs at schools
- Support senior centers and other programs that provide meals and food to seniors
- Help families access federal food programs
“It’s an honor support the work of Greater Somerset County YMCA because they’re on the frontline of hunger relief with effective, efficient, caring outreach to people in need,” Dana Ward of the ACME Markets Foundation said in the statement. “In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, it’s good to know that there are community partners like the Y who won’t allow hunger to become a second crisis.”
As part of Greater Somerset County YMCA’s Food Security Program, the Y has been distributing food in each of its communities including Plainfield, which has experienced a significant increase in food insecurity.
For details on food distribution and weekly volunteer opportunities that support the program, contact Kisha Chubb at [email protected] or visit www.gscymca.org/py-food-security.