Friends and family,
September is Hunger Action Month, and this year, our neighbors and food banks need our support more than ever. Food insecurity is increasing dramatically in the United States due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated economic environment. Every person should have enough nutritious food to eat, and no family should have to make choices between buying groceries or paying for rent and utilities. Yet 1 out of every 9 people in America is food insecure. Our food banks are a critical support to the 54 million people who are predicted to experience food insecurity in America in 2020. Food banks combat food insecurity by distributing food directly to community members (e.g., through pop-up "mobile pantries" in neighborhoods) as well as to partner agencies (e.g., the food pantries and soup kitchens run through community or religious organizations.)
As you may know, nutrition and health are my greatest passions, and I have contributed funds, time, and expertise to support the Feeding America affiliates in my communities for most of the last decade. This year, I'm participating in the 10th annual Will Bike 4 Food cycling event. This event supports The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, the local Feeding America affiliate in my new home, which serves communities in Berkshire County and 3 neighboring counties. I commit to riding at least 100 miles this month and raising at least $1000 to support The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. (I have personally contributed $1/day for the next year, and my employer is matching my donation, for a total of $730 toward my goal.) You can track my biking progress here. I would be delighted if you would support my fundraising goal. I would be equally delighted if you donated to Feeding America nationally or to the affiliate who serves your own community instead. Every $1 we donate funds 4 meals for our neighbors.
Gratefully yours,
Casey
Ride with me this Hunger Action Month! Register at willbike4food.org
Will Bike 4 Food
Will Bike 4 Food is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2020 and it is going VIRTUAL! This fun cycling event raises funds and awareness for The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Will Bike 4 Food invites cyclists of all ages and abilities to pedal towards a hunger-free future. This year you choose your ride. Ride up a mountain, on the trails, or your stationary bike at home.
100% of your donation goes to The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts to support their mission to feed our neighbors in need and lead the community to end hunger (unavoidable credit card fees notwithstanding). Every $1 = 4 meals!
Register to ride and find more event details at willbike4food.org
Questions? Contact Jennifer Therkelsen, Event Coordinator at [email protected] or 413-247-9738 x128
Since 1982, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has been feeding our neighbors in need and leading the community to end hunger. We distribute food to our member agencies in Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden and Hampshire counties. These independent pantries, meal sites and shelters are on the front lines of emergency food assistance in our region, playing a crucial role helping individuals, families, seniors and children. Every $1 donated to The Food Bank can purchase 4 meals for a family who needs them most.