Director's Corner
Leslie Van Horn, Executive Director
Happy New Year from the Federation of Virginia Food Banks!
Thanks to the wonderful generosity of corporations and individuals throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia during the holiday season –you are helping us make a difference in the lives of so many individuals in need of emergency food. Since 2006, we have seen a 54% in demand due to economically challenging times and high unemployment and those numbers continue to rise.
We have many challenges before us in 2012 including the reauthorization of the national Farm Bill where many nutritional programs such as SNAP (food stamps) and TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) will be facing potential cuts at a time when these programs are needed more than ever. Food Banks have always been there to fill the gap – without these programs in place, we may have a harder time filling those gaps.
In 2012, we are looking forward to our 6th annual Legal Food Frenzy competition and in the next few months, be on the lookout for an announcement about a new statewide food and fund drive this summer that will focus on businesses across the Commonwealth. This summer, we also look forward to working with our local farmers on our “Fresh Food for Virginians” project which provides a healthy nutritious product to people who can’t afford to purchase it on their limited incomes.
And, as always, we continue to support our seven members with food and funding opportunities sothey can feed individuals in their communities.
We are providing hope to those in need. Thank you for helping us make a difference!