The holiday season is upon us and for many families, that means spending time with loved ones and sharing the joy and good food this time of year brings. However, it’s important that we don’t get too caught up in our own festivities that we forget those struggling to make ends meet. That’s why I’m once again hosting my annual food drive to help combat food insecurity in Central New York and beyond.
It can be difficult for us to imagine that hunger exists in a thriving nation like the United States. But unfortunately, that is the reality for far too many hardworking families. More than 37 million Americans struggle with hunger, including over 11 million children. And it’s not just a national concern, but a local one as well. Over 180,000 people experience food insecurity right here in Central New York, and sadly, many households are forced to choose between paying for food or paying the rent.
That’s a sacrifice no family should ever have to make, which is why I’m encouraging residents to donate canned goods and other nonperishable food items to help make a neighbor’s holiday a little more cheerful. All food collected will be donated to the Food Bank of Central New York, a not-for-profit organization working to eliminate hunger by providing more than 12.1 million nutritious meals each year to families in need across Central and northern New York.
This year’s food drive will run from Dec. 2 to Jan. 2, and preferred items include canned tuna, cereals, canned and dried beans, legumes, oatmeal, soups, stews, peanut butter, canned and dried fruits, dinner mixes, canned vegetables, pasta, rice and grains. Donations can be dropped off at my district office at 7293 Buckley Road, Suite 201, North Syracuse, or at a participating local library. These include:
• NOPL at Brewerton: 5440 Bennett St.
• NOPL at Cicero: 8686 Knowledge Lane
• Minoa Free Library: 242 N. Main St.
• NOPL at North Syracuse: 100 Trolley Barn Lane
I hope you’ll join me this holiday season in the fight against hunger and offer a helping hand to those who need it. Remember — even the smallest donation can make a huge difference. And if you’re looking for more ways to help, our local food pantries and soup kitchens are always in need of volunteers, especially during this busy time of year. There’s no greater feeling than giving back to your community, and by working together, we can build a better tomorrow.
As always, my door is open. If you have questions about this or any other community issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 315-452-1115 or [email protected].
