Northwest Federal Credit Union has set a goal to collect 12,000 pounds of non-perishable food items – or six tons of spaghetti sauce, peanut butter, canned juice and cereal boxes – by Aug. 15 for its annual food drive.
“We wanted to make a significant impact, as late summer is such a critical time for local food banks,” said Chris McDonald, President/CEO of Northwest Federal. “It’s a sizable goal, but the need is great.”
All donations will benefit LINK, Inc., an organization providing emergency food to people in need in the Herndon, Sterling, and Ashburn, Va. communities. During the summer months, LINK’s shelves thin out, as the many donations received during the previous holiday season run low. At the same time, the need for emergency assistance spikes as families can’t turn to school resources to provide meals for their children.
“This will exceed what we have collected in the past, and I believe our employees, members and friends in the community are up for the challenge,” said McDonald.
Non-perishable food donations will be collected through Aug. 15 at Northwest Federal branches in Chantilly, Gainesville, Herndon, Leesburg, Manassas and Vienna. Cash donations will also be accepted via account transfers made at branch locations, through the Credit Union’s foundation website, or by calling the Call Center at 1-866-709-8901. Every $5 donation will equal eight pounds of food.
Food items in greatest demand include pasta, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, canned and powdered milk, canned meats, soups, rice, and flour. General guidelines recommend food donations be low in sugar and sodium, and high in protein and whole grains.
To learn about Northwest Federal and its work in communities, visit www.nwfcu.org.