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The Regional Food Bank of Hudson Valley is preparing to distribute 115,000 Thanksgiving meals across the region, marking the largest single-day meal distribution in New York State history. This initiative aims to support over 25,000 individuals in Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, Sullivan, and Rockland counties. The distribution, scheduled for Friday, November 22, will involve more than 800 volunteers and is part of a broader effort to provide over 350,000 meals statewide.
According to Tom Nardacci, CEO of the Regional Food Bank, the need for food assistance has increased due to federal spending cuts, which reduced the region's food supply by over seven million pounds. The Thanksgiving meal packages will include turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing mix, potatoes, vegetables, and other holiday essentials. There are no eligibility requirements for those seeking meals; anyone in need can simply drive or walk up to receive a meal.
The distribution will take place at various locations, including the Regional Food Bank in Montgomery, Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, Good Neighbor Food Pantry in Woodstock, and Clover Stadium in Pomona. The event will start at 10 a.m. and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Local organizations and businesses, such as Stop & Shop, Central Hudson Gas & Electric, and Price Chopper/Market 32, are key sponsors of the event. Volunteers are crucial to the effort, and community members are encouraged to sign up for shifts at regionalfoodbank.net.