Dear Friend of Philabundance,
I began my new role as CEO at Philabundance last month, in a time of uncertainty, unrest, and great change for our city, region, and nation. But it is also a time of great possibility, and I am honored to have this opportunity to lead our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners at this critical time as we drive hunger from our communities. Thank you for joining us in our mission.
Loree D. Jones
Chief Executive Officer
Philabundance
Last week, we hosted a virtual town hall featuring three of our agency partners, moderated by Niki Hawkins, Director of Community Affairs at WPVI-TV/6ABC and a proud member of the Philabundance Board of Directors. Rev. Vito Baldini, Desiree’ La Marr-Murphy, and Rev. Tricia Neale are just three of our 350 “hunger heroes” serving our community members every day. From meeting a drastic increase in need to adapting operations to safely and effectively serve our most vulnerable populations, they play a critical role inhelping us distribute more than 2 million pounds of food each month amid this global pandemic. Their insight, experience, and efforts to manage food insecurity across our region are powerful, and I encourage you to listen here if you haven’t had a chance.
As our region enters a new phase and more businesses resume operations, it is important to remember that the long-term effects of this public health and economic crisis will continue to plague our neighbors in the months ahead. According to data from Feeding America, Philadelphia County’s food insecurity rate is expected to increase to 21.2 percent in 2020—a 30 percent increase above 2018 levels. As economic uncertainty persists, Philabundance and our network of agencies expect more people will be looking to us for help setting their table.
We do have a number of specific initiatives for which we are seeking financial support. One of these is the weekly food distribution and meals for the city’s temporary shelter in Kensington. This continued need only reinforces the significance of our work and the difference that passionate donors, like you, make every day.
On behalf of the entire Philabundance family, thank you for your partnership at all times, but especially during this time of great need for so many of our neighbors. Together, I am confident that we will create positive change as we continue our fight against hunger.
I look forward to introducing myself in person and meeting many of you in the months ahead. However, in the meantime, please reach out with your questions, concerns, and feedback.
Yours in service,
Loree D. Jones
Chief Executive Officer
Philabundance
