The Grundy County Food Pantry, administered by Operation Threshold, is once again participating in The Feinstein Foundation Challenge. All monetary and food donations made to the food pantry from March 1st through April 30th will be eligible for match dollars from the Foundation. The more donations individuals or groups give to the pantry during this timeframe, the more matching funds the Feinstein Foundation will supply.
The Feinstein Foundation, based in Rhode Island, “is dedicated to the alleviation of hunger, the importance of community service in education and the values of caring, compassion and brotherhood” (www.feinsteinfoundation.org). Last year the Feinstein Challenge assisted the Grundy County Food Pantry in inspiring extra awareness and giving. In 2011, 55 donors were moved to give $5,270.00 worth of food and monetary donations to the pantry.
Operation Threshold is hopeful “The Challenge” will inspire similar generosity on the part of donors in 2012. And right now, the Grundy County Food Pantry need donations. Usage of the Grundy County Food Pantry is up dramatically, increasing by 23% from 2010 to 2011. The winter months are a particularly difficult period for struggling families. Nearly half of those assisted at Northeast Iowa pantries reported having to choose between heating and eating.
In FY2011, the Grundy County Food Pantry provided food to 662 such individuals; 41% of which were children.
Organizations and individuals who want to support the Grundy County Food Pantry as part of the challenge are asked to write “Feinstein Foundation” somewhere on their donations. For questions, contact Grundy County Coordinator Christine Tobias at 319-824-3460.