MILFORD, DE- The Food Bank of Delaware hosted a food drive Thursday, rallying community members to donate and help offset the impact of recent federal cuts to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), which have significantly reduced the organization’s food supply.
Dozens of cars lined up outside the Food Bank’s Milford location to drop off donations, demonstrating support for efforts to feed thousands of Delawareans who rely on their services.
Recent federal cuts to the USDA—a longtime partner of the Food Bank—have reduced the amount of food distributed to organizations nationwide.
In response, the Food Bank of Delaware is turning to the local community for support.
Chad Robinson, with the Food Bank of Delaware, discussed the immediate effects of those cuts on their operations.
“We were notified last week that 19 truckloads, we won't be receiving between now and the end of the fiscal year. Those loads represent about 29% of what we anticipated receiving from the USDA before the end of the year.”
With more than 900,000 meals now on hold, Robinson stressed how crucial community support is to meet the ongoing need.
“These cuts will just make it harder for us to put food on the tables of Delawareans for the next few months. But that's the importance of events like this tonight.”
Local lawmakers and officials were also in attendance, encouraging residents to come together and take action.
Sen. Dave Wilson (R- District 18) says fighting hunger requires unity, especially when so many families are struggling.
“It’s not about Democrat or Republican or independents. Everybody has a hunger need. We're just here to help serve."
Community members like Paige Howell said they were proud to contribute and make a difference during such a critical time.
“I feel great being a part of it because I know I'm helping someone who is hungry and needs food."
As demand continues to rise and resources shrink, Food Bank leaders say community involvement is more important than ever.
Cathy Kanefsky, with the Food Bank of Delaware, explained how tight budgets have pushed the organization to maximize every contribution.
“We've been operating on a shoestring budget, making use of every single donation, every single dollar, every single can that comes to us. We need the community to step up so no Delawarean has to experience hunger.”
The Food Bank of Delaware says they are always accepting donations—whether food, money, or time. For more information on how to contribute, visit the Food Bank of Delaware’s website.