AARP Virginia Statewide Community Food Drive to be Held in September

It takes just a little to give back a lot, and no matter where you live, you can help fight hunger in your community during the month of September.

AARP Virginia supports 2023 Hunger Action Month, and collection sites statewide will accept food for community food banks and food pantries. AARP Chapters and Virginia Retired Teachers Association units across the Commonwealth are organizing food drives in their communities throughout September to aid local food charities.

AARP volunteers are also encouraging Virginia residents to check to see whether they might qualify for SNAP food benefits. Less than half of SNAP eligible Americans over age 60 participate in the program nationwide. There is a critical need to assist people in navigating the application process and raise awareness of the financial resources available. Check eligibility with Virginia 211.

You can help right where you live! Individuals and organizations interested in joining the effort can spearhead a food collection event in their community. You can also help by identifying food collection sites, getting the word out about the food drive and staffing food collection sites. It’s a great project for clubs, faith organizations, schools and other groups.

More than 900,000 Virginians are at risk for hunger. While donations to food banks have decreased, requests for food assistance has increased. The Federation of Virginia Food Banks offers a good starting point for individuals desiring to help. If you are able to help in a small or large way please begin by contacting your local representative food bank using their online directory: https://vafoodbanks.org/virginia-food-bank-locator/

You Can Help Fight Hunger in Your Neighborhood.