The United Fresh Produce Association donated 51,042 lbs. of produce and 641lbs. of assorted dry food to the Greater Chicago Food Depository at the conclusion of the United Fresh 2016 annual convention and expo in Chicago this week. Volunteers collect donations from the convention floor to benefit those in need serviced by Greater Chicago Food Depository partner agencies such as food pantries, soup kitchens, and other emergency feeding centers.
The Greater Chicago Food Depository is a member of the Feeding America network of food banks. This year’s total donation of 51,710 lbs. continues a United Fresh tradition of supporting the Feeding America network after the annual convention.
“For many hungry men, women and children in our community, access to nutritious produce is not a guarantee,” said Kate Maehr, Executive Director and CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. “But, this generous donation from the United Fresh Produce Association, its exhibitors and partners will help the Food Depository provide much needed fruit and vegetables to our neighbors in need. Thank you to the United Fresh Produce Association and Feeding America for their support in the fight against hunger.”
The Food Depository, founded in 1979, makes a daily impact across Cook County with a network of 650 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, mobile programs, children’s programs, older adult programs and innovative responses that address the root causes of hunger. Last year, the Food Depository distributed 68 million pounds of shelf-stable food, fresh produce, dairy products and meat, the equivalent of 155,000 meals every day.
With a network of 200-member food banks across the country, Feeding America supplies more than 3.7 billion meals to 46.5 million people annually.
Contact:
Mary Coppola
Tel: 202-303-3425