In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continued to spread, the MREF Board of Directors quickly agreed to make a gift of $25,000 to help reduce hunger in North America, and to create a campaign to mobilize the industry to support the same cause. According to Steve Schlesinger, chair of the board, “We are inspired by the results of our outreach. The MR industry came together and has made a real impact for thousands of children and families.”
Nikki Drevich, Interim Chief Development Officer at Feeding America, noted that before the pandemic, 37 million people faced hunger in America. As a result of this pandemic, Feeding America estimates that 17.1 million additional people could find themselves without enough food. “This shocking number means there is an unprecedented need for resources. We have such gratitude for organizations like MREF that have motivated others to focus on coming together during this crisis.”
Food Banks Canada is working with a network of more than 3,000 food banks and community agencies throughout the country to handle the increased need created by the pandemic. With support from large corporations and individuals, they are mobilizing the country in this collective fight. “We’ve put out a call to Canadians and have been humbled by the response and are grateful for those who continue to give,” said Chris Hatch, CEO, Food Banks Canada. “Donations like the one from MREF are making a difference for those who need it.”
Click here for a full list of the generous donors to this campaign.
Thank you to the many individuals and organizations who supported this effort!
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