2021 brought many challenges, but it also brought us together.
Since the beginning of the pandemic our network has expanded from 650 agencies, partners and programs to more than 850 across 11 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania.
“The one thing that I’m most proud of is that we’ve been there for people when they’ve needed us the most. And by we, I mean the Food Bank, our network of partners, our supporters; we have been there at a time of unprecedented need.” said Lisa Scales, President and CEO of Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. “Collectively, we provided enough food for 45 million meals this past year.”
With your help, we made sure our neighbors had enough to eat through drive-up distributions, senior boxes, programs and pantries, food programs for children and more.
We made finding resources easier through our new Find Food guide that is customizable by location, availability and service preference. We’ve prioritized the health of our neighbors by distributing more fresh produce than ever. In fact, 30% of all our food distributions include nutritious, fresh produce.
Why? Because access to quality, wholesome food changes/saves lives.
With the help of our donors, volunteers and advocates, we can provide individuals, like Amy, with the resources they need to lead healthy lives.
“Chemo is not free. I have a co-pay bill for my cancer pills, the water, light and gas bills, so the grocery bill is really at the bottom. It seemed like everything was, one-after-another, a miracle for us, starting with the Food Bank. We drove up, opened the trunk, they put it in and that was it. I’ll never forget that. That saved our lives,” Amy shared of her experience turning to the Food Bank for help.
Hear more about Amy’s story here.
Next year, we hope for a return to greater normalcy where friends and families can gather around a table more regularly. We’re also awaiting the chance to host our staff and community supporters in our renovated facility in Duquesne.
Food insecurity is still above pre-pandemic levels and we’ve never faced a need so great. If you’re struggling with food insecurity, please know that we’re here for you at your time of greatest need. We know how difficult it can be to ask for help, but know that our entire community is behind you and willing to lend a hand.
If you’re in need, learn about ways we can help at pittsburghfoodbank.org/gethelp or call (412) 460-3663 ext. 655.
To our supporters, donors and volunteers, we are grateful for your support and partnership. Thanks to you, we bring food, dignity and hope to our neighbors so that they can have a brighter tomorrow.
We look forward to continuing our mission in 2022. Working together, we know we can solve hunger.