Harrisburg, PA (October 4, 2022) – Nearly two million Pennsylvanians are struggling with hunger. Of them, 500,000 are children. While food banks can help to meet these needs, PA’s charitable food network has seen an unprecedented rise in demand since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying economic downturn.
PSECU, Pennsylvania’s largest credit union, has a longstanding history of supporting those facing food insecurity in the commonwealth and has forged strong relationships with Feeding Pennsylvania and select member food banks across the state. Contributing more than $500,000 to combat food insecurity over the last five years, PSECU is tackling hunger again in 2022.
Tackling Hunger month is observed nationally each October and seeks to raise awareness about food insecurity. Partnering with eight Feeding Pennsylvania member food banks across the state, PSECU is inviting its members to join them in a day of volunteerism. Members can register in advance to volunteer on October 26, 2022 at one of the eight food banks listed below. Volunteers who share photos of their experience on social media can help raise additional funds for the food bank, as the credit union will donate $5 for each like the photos receive (up to $5,000 total).
- Central PA Food Bank
- Community Food Warehouse Mercer County
- Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
- Berks & Schuylkill Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank
- Westmoreland Food Bank
- Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest PA
- Weinberg Northeast Regional Food Bank
- Philabundance
“PSECU believes in the credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people’,” said Karen Rousche, PSECU’s Community Relations Coordinator. “This philosophy inspires us to support the community and provide resources to help the greatest number of individuals, families, and businesses.” She continues, “Addressing food insecurity is a way that we can have a direct impact on improving the everyday lives of our neighbors. We want to inspire others to do the same.”
In addition to the volunteer initiative on October 26, PSECU will be making a $40,000 donation to Feeding Pennsylvania, one of its pillar charity partners, and urging members who are able, to also make a donation. In the past, PSECU members have donated more than $40,000 to combat food insecurity. Donations can be made directly through Feeding Pennsylvania’s website, feedingpa.org/psecu.
“PSECU and their members have been an incredible support to Feeding Pennsylvania and have exemplified how just one individual or organization can make a huge impact,” said Jane Clements, CEO of Feeding Pennsylvania. “Throughout ‘National Tackle Hunger Month’ this October, we are excited and grateful to continue our partnership and spread awareness, encourage volunteering and donation of funds in support of the work that our member food banks do to ensure every Pennsylvanian has access to nutritious food."
Keep up with the campaign on PSECU’s website or on social media: Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.