Food banks across the country are seeing the number of food-insecure individuals in their communities significantly increase as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19). With a growing need for food throughout their region, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts sprang into action, not only addressing immediate demand, but also planning for the uncertain future of the crisis.
The organization received one of the first awarded grants from the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation’s $1.25 million in emergency funding, announced and distributed in mid-March. The grant has allowed the food bank to deliver vital food and supplies in the community as well as purchase a semi-tractor trailer full of meal kits for future deliveries directly to at-need homes.
“The funding has helped us combat an urgent need, while also giving us the ability to plan for the future, which is so important in an uncertain crisis like we’re in now,” said Lillian Baulding, Communications and Engagement Officer at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. “We’re thankful for organizations like the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation that are really stepping up to help keep our communities fed in these tough times.”
To-date, through funding provided by Dunkin’, its franchisees, and its Foundation, hundreds of thousands of complimentary cups of coffee, donuts, Keurig® K-Cup pods, and Dunkin’ gift cards were delivered to more than 300 hospitals and emergency sites, and counting. Let’s keep going. Want to thank a local hero for all that they do? Send them a Dunkin’ e-gift card at DunkinCoffeeBreak.com. For every card sent, Dunkin’ will donate $1, up to $100,000, to the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation emergency funds, specifically for non-profits helping families affected by COVID-19. For more information on the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, please visit bringjoy.org.
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