ANN ARBOR – Food Gatherers has announced that its annual food and fund drive Rockin’ for the Hungry will kick off this year on Giving Tuesday.
From Nov. 30-Dec. 4, the food bank, in partnership with ann arbor’s 107one and Kroger, will be collecting food and funds from community members to feed those in need in Washtenaw County.
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With both in-person and virtual donation options, event organizers hope to raise 1 million meals for those experiencing food insecurity as the holiday season begins.
“The need for food remains elevated in our community and many of our neighbors rely on Food Gatherers and our network of pantries and programs to make ends meet,” President and CEO of Food Gatherers Eileen Spring said in a statement. “The pandemic created a perfect storm of operational challenges and increased need for food banks and food pantries everywhere.
“Even as the economy opens back up, we expect our elevated response will be in place for the next 18-24 months. Donations made during Rockin’ will provide nutritious groceries and meals to anyone in need in our community, all year long.”
Monetary gifts made during the campaign will be matched 1:1 thanks to Food Gatherers’ Harold & Kay Peplau Family Fund, Power Hour sponsors and Kroger. A financial gift of $5, when matched, is the equivalent of 30 meals for those facing hunger in the community.
As is tradition, ann arbor’s 107one radio hosts will present a five-day broadcast. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year’s broadcast will be virtual. Listeners can tune in to 107.1 FM to hear interviews with community leaders, Food Gatherers staff and partners daily from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
According to a campaign release, there are several ways to donate, including:
- By phone at 734-606-0753
- By check: Mail or deliver a check made payable to Food Gatherers to our warehouse, Food Gatherers, 1 Carrot Way, Ann Arbor, MI 48105; please note Rockin’ for the Hungry in the memo line.
- In person: On December 4th, Food Gatherers staff and volunteers will be collecting donations of nonperishable food and funds at the Kroger stores on Maple Road, Whittaker Road, and Plymouth Road. Stop by between 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. to donate.
A silent provided by ann arbor’s 107one featuring music memorabilia will also be running throughout the event.
For more information, visit www.foodgatherers.org/rockin.