Food For the Hungry sets $250K fundraising goal

By the closing weeks of last year’s Food For The Hungry campaign, organizers had collected $257,538 and 26 truckloads of nonperishable food items.

But this year, with inflation and rising gas prices stretching everyone’s wallet thin, it may be challenging to match those levels.

This year, the campaign has set a target of $250,000, down from last year’s goal of $275,000.

Lisa Mazzari, FFTH’s executive director, said the committee based its new benchmark on several factors, including the needs reported by its beneficiaries, such as Interchurch Social Services, the Salvation Army and others. The goal also factors in current economic conditions, such as rising costs for housing, food, utilities and fuel.

Mazzari is confident Knox Countians will be able to step up to help their neighbors.

“We are blessed with an amazing community,” Mazzari told the Mount Vernon News. “So many people from every age group and walk of life have something to contribute to this drive – and I believe that barriers are eliminated because of the kindness and generosity of our community.”

Mazzari said FFTH’s buying power is increased through a partnership.

“Just $1 can purchase $5.22 in food through the buying power of The Mid-Ohio Food Collective (formerly Mid-Ohio Food Bank),” Mazzari said. “We individuals cannot take $1 and buy $5.22 worth of food – that dollar stretches further.”

Like any other drive for donations, there is a deadline for getting the funds. The organization needs time to distribute the food for the holidays.

“The live broadcast will take place on Friday, Dec. 9, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Knox Memorial,” Mazzari said. “We will continue to collect for a few weeks after that date. Some events don’t occur until after the broadcast, including the Kenyon Snowflake Gala and the Knox County Parks District’s Fire and Ice at Honey Run Falls.”

For opportunities to give, volunteer or donate to the 2022 drive, visit FoodForTheHungryCares.org or contact Lisa Mazarri at 740-398-0569, or send an email to lisam.ffth@gmail.com.

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