hunger...together

Dear Friends,
When the economy struggles as it has for the past five years, the Regional Food Bank is asked to do more to feed our hungry
neighbors. Fortunately, with the help of many generous people we were able to provide more assistance than ever in 2012. We
distributed over 27.7 million pounds of food (enough for 23 million meals) to our member agencies, an 8% increase over 2011
and 55% more than we provided just five years ago.
It took many people helping in many different ways to make that happen. I want to thank our dedicated and hardworking staff,
deeply committed Board of Directors, food donors, financial supporters, volunteers, and everyone else who used their talents
and resources to assist us with our work. I also thank and commend our member agencies - the food pantries, soup kitchens,
homeless shelters, and other programs that every day provide sustenance to those who turn to them for help. They have our
utmost respect.
It is an honor for us at the Regional Food Bank to partner with so many caring people in the fight against hunger. We will always
strive to live up to the faith and trust that has been placed in us.
Sincerely,
Mark Quandt
Executive Director
Dear Friends,
In 2012, the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley saw an increase in the amount of food distributed in six counties, the number of
member agencies served, and the number of individuals assisted in its service area. Facing the challenges of disaster relief for
a second year in a row with the onset of Superstorm Sandy, the Food Bank was aided financially by many caring people and
organizations. TD Bank alone donated $25,000 to help those affected by the storm. The Food Bank worked in partnership with
agencies in Rockland, Orange and Ulster counties to ensure that food, cleaning supplies, and other essential items were available
for disaster relief efforts.
Economic conditions for many of our neighbors were still very difficult in 2012, and the Food Bank provided resources to help those
who remained jobless, felt the stress of a shrinking paycheck, or were homeless. Despite the tough economic times, the level of
support for the Food Bank increased. Many of our neighbors made donations, volunteered their time, or committed other acts of
generosity to assist those who needed help.
We appreciate the willingness of so many individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to work with the Food Bank to
create a caring environment in the Hudson Valley. We will continue to strive to make our community a better place to live for all,
with assistance from a wonderful, philanthropic base of support. Thank you for your efforts to be a part of the Food Bank’s
mission.
Sincerely,
Jan Whitman
Director
Food Bank of the Hudson Valley