Bank of America associates gathered today at the Food Bank of Delaware’s
northeast Wilmington mobile pantry site to distribute emergency food to 250
families and individuals in need from the community.

During the volunteer event, the Bank of America Charitable Foundation announced
a $55,000 donation, part of a $1 million grant to Feeding America (formerly
America’s Second Harvest), the nation’s largest domestic hunger relief organization,
to provide food and groceries to hungry families throughout the First State.

“Bank of America remains focused on providing relevant, meaningful support to help
individuals and families navigate difficult times,” said Ric Struthers, Bank of America Delaware Market President.  “Ensuring vulnerable populations in our community have access to basic services is a critical component to revitalizing the economy. We are proud to support the Food Bank of Delaware both financially and through the dedication and efforts of our associates, at a time when nonprofits are struggling to provide significantly increased services to the thousands of families who are having enormous difficulty making ends meet.”

$35,000 will be used for the Food Bank’s Mobile Pantry program. Through the Mobile Pantry program, a Food Bank truck travels to a designated underserved area during hours when clients find it easier to receive assistance. Food is distributed from the back of the truck.

The remaining $20,000 will be used to fund the Food Bank’s new Food Rescue program. The program will allow food service companies to make donations of fresh, prepared foods to hungry Delawareans.

“Bank of America’s support could not come at a better time,” said Patricia Beebe, Food Bank of Delaware President and CEO. “Over the past year, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the need for food from the agencies we support.  Whether it’s the people who have sought our services before and need them more or the many new faces needing some assistance, we’re committed to getting food on the table.”  

According to a recent survey released by Feeding America, demand at Feeding America’s food banks increased an average of 30 percent last year. Locally, agencies throughout the state report seeing new faces in the lines of soup kitchens and shelters. “Families that once donated their time and money to hunger-relief agencies are now turning to them for support,” said Beebe.

 “The nation’s hunger crisis has grown dramatically over the last year. People all over the country are eating less food, smaller meals, and even having to skip meals altogether,” said Vicki Escarra, Feeding America president and CEO. “We are extraordinarily grateful to Bank of America for recognizing the tremendous strain so many Americans are facing as a result of the economic downturn by donating this generous gift.”

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