Millions of Americans face food insecurity every day, and unfortunately, it’s getting a lot worse during the coronavirus pandemic.
Before the crisis, more than 37 million people were living with food insecurity. Now, another 17 million could face hunger in the coming months. More than 18 million children — 1 out of every 4 — could be food insecure. Food banks and the federal SNAP program (formerly food stamps) are overwhelmed, and with unemployment at historic levels, the numbers of hungry Americans will continue to rise.
That’s why CREDO is extending our COVID-19 relief donations to three additional, community-based organizations fighting hunger on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic: Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana, and Citymeals on Wheels (in NY).
These donations to frontline hunger organizations — an additional $5,000 each week for three weeks — are above and beyond our monthly giving to nonprofit groups. Last month, we established a COVID-19 Relief Fund with a $75,000 donation split between Mercy Corps, National Domestic Workers Alliance and World Central Kitchen. These donations are thanks to CREDO members who use our products and services every day. And like all our donations, these gifts are given at no extra cost to our customers.
Here’s a little bit more about these three great groups helping to fight hunger and food insecurity during this crisis:
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
One in five people face food insecurity in Los Angeles County, and coronavirus is disproportionately impacting lower-income communities. School closures, changes in work schedules and social isolation are layering extra burdens on our neighbors throughout Los Angeles County. The LA Regional Food Bank is working hard to meet the needs of those impacted by coronavirus, as well as individuals who typically need assistance. Read MoreSecond Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana
Hundreds of thousands of Louisianans have filed unemployment claims in recent weeks, and many of them are seeking emergency food assistance, often for the first time. The immediate need for food has increased by more than 40 percent. According to the organization, the response will go on for months, and the economic impacts could last for long after the pandemic subsides. Read MoreCitymeals on Wheels (in NY)
As the designated emergency responder for New York City’s seniors, Citymeals is delivering 450,000 meals in response to the Coronavirus outbreak. Donations will help guarantee a continuous lifeline of nourishing meals during this crisis to more than 18,000 homebound elderly New Yorkers. Read More