Channel One moves away from traditional food drives

(ABC 6 News) – For many non-profits that help people get food on the table, there’s a discussion on how they get that food, whether it’s through raising money or through traditional food drives.

It’s a conversation that’s been front and center for the Channel One Regional Food Bank over the past few years. Channel One ended food drives in 2020 because of the pandemic and say only 1% of their food was actually coming from drives. Adding the process of setting up the drives was overwhelming for both staff and volunteers.

"A lot of people really love a food drive and it’s understandable because it’s a tactile way to experience and learn something. But in reality, that writing a check or going online and making a donation is much easier," said Jessica Sund, director of development and communications at Channel One Regional Food Bank.

"Making a donation is much easier and much more meaningful because we can take that donation, again, buy the healthy produce, fresh milk, things that families need to sustain a healthy lifestyle which is better for the community in general," added Sund.

With a monetary donation, Channel One can turn every dollar into three and a half meals.

For the month of March, ABC 6 News is partnering with the Channel One Regional Food Bank to help put an end to hunger in our region. For more information and to donate, you can click here.