ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) -The St. Louis Area Foodbank is commemorating 50 years of providing vital nourishment and resources to the bi-state.
According to the non-profit, they were founded in July 1975 as the Food Crisis Network to address the growing need for food assistance in the region. A decade later, the name changed to the St. Louis Area Foodbank. Today, they help feed more than a million people in 26 counties across Eastern Missouri and Southwestern Illinois.
President and CEO Meredith Knopp told First Alert 4 that the food insecurity impacts one in seven people in that region.
“You see boxes and cans. We see faces,” Knopp said. “We see families that are getting food and hope.”
In honor of their 50th anniversary, the Foodbank is launching a “50 Ways in 50 Days” social media campaign on July 15. Each day encourages followers to get involved with the Foodbank in a new way.
“Anyone of any age, young and old, can join us as we launch the Foodbank of the future and the next 50 years,” Knopp said.
First Alert 4 will be live with the Foodbank on July 15, sharing more about their mission, hopes for the future, and how you can get involved.
“The St. Louis Area Food Bank is built upon the men and women of our community who believe in ensuring that everyone has access to healthy and nutritious foods,” Knopp said. “For everyone who’s been a part of our first 50 years – thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. And if you haven’t been a part of the first 50, come join us for the next 50!”
The Foodbank achieves their mission through their mobile distribution events, school markets, and partnerships with nearly 600 agencies.
“We’re leading the way in innovation,” Knopp said. “We’re there when our communities need us. With the tornado disaster response, we are that beacon of hope to people who need it, providing food and hope across the bi-state region.”
Learn more about their programs, plus how you can donate or volunteer at FirstAlert4.com/STLFoodbank.
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