ELMIRA, NY (607NewsNow) — With just one week until Thanksgiving, many families are preparing for a holiday filled with food and togetherness. But for thousands of Southern Tier residents, the season also highlights the ongoing challenges of hunger and food insecurity, which were heightened after the pandemic.
The Food Bank of the Southern Tier is calling on the community to help provide hope and a holiday meal by supporting the 15th annual Virtual Turkey Drive.
Today only, every donation will have triple the impact thanks to Tioga Downs Casino Resort, which has pledged to triple-match all contributions. This commitment means that a $10 donation, normally enough for 30 meals, will now provide 90 meals to local individuals and families in need.
Turkeys and holiday meal supplies will be distributed to partner agencies across the Southern Tier. Even before the pandemic, one in eight adults and one in five children in the region faced food insecurity. Now, more than half of those requesting help are doing so for the first time, underscoring the urgent need for community support.
Donating is simple: visit www.foodbankst.org to contribute any amount. With Tioga Downs tripling every gift today, even a small donation can make a significant difference for neighbors struggling with hunger this holiday season.
