Letter to the Community from the Alameda Food Bank

The 's Spring Challenge fundraising program still has a way to go to meet the goal of raising $30,000 to support the work of our local food bank here on the Island.

So far, with the generosity of businesses, organizations and individuals in our town we have received a total of $18,800 leaving $11,200 more to be raised. We are making a direct appeal to the community for your help. 

Last year we served over 5,600 Alamedans and the need for our services continues to grow.

Just when we thought the economy might be improving, we saw a 10 percent increase in program utilization for the month of April over last year. We believe our agency’s ability to help those in our community in need will continue to be put to the test for the remainder of 2011 and beyond.

While most of us think about making donations to the food bank later in the year, the truth is donations are needed year-round. The Spring Challenge is our way of reminding the community of the continuing need to provide hunger relief to low-income Alameda residents.

We serve seniors and people with disabilities living on limited incomes, people with families to support who are now unemployed or underemployed, or suffering other temporary financial setbacks. Nearly one third of our clients are children.

Even a small contribution can help alleviate hunger in our community. A $5 donation is enough to provide nearly half of the groceries a client will need for a month. A $20 donation will help a family of four. All contributions are tax-deductible.

We are especially grateful to all of our supporters who have already given. Please visit our website to see a complete list of businesses and organizations that made donations to kick off this fundraising effort. You can also go there to learn more about the Alameda Food Bank or to make a donation.

With gratitude to the community for its continued support.

Sincerely,

Alameda Food Bank Board of Directors