Massive Community Effort: FourLeaf Turkey Drive Raises 4,700 Turkeys Amid Long Island's Food Crisis
This year’s FourLeaf Turkey Drive, held following the Thanksgiving holiday, has set a new record by collecting an impressive total of 4,767 frozen turkeys, alongside 23,162 pounds of food and over $117,244 in donations to aid the Island Harvest Food Bank. This annual event, recognized as Long Island's largest one-day food drive, serves as a critical lifeline for the community especially during a time of rising food insecurity.
Since its inception in 2008, the FourLeaf Turkey Drive has progressively grown, amassing nearly 60,000 turkeys and 290,000 pounds of food to support families in need. The initiative not only demonstrates the strength of community spirit but reflects the increasing necessity for such efforts, especially when statistics reveal alarming figures: one in 12 Long Islanders, totaling over 240,000 people, are grappling with food insecurity as of 2023.
Linda Armyn, President and CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, articulated the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Each year, the FourLeaf Turkey Drive reminds us of what's possible when a community comes together. We are grateful for the corporate partners and countless individuals who contributed to this year's success. Their generosity is the heartbeat of this effort."
The donations from the Turkey Drive ensure that many families can enjoy Thanksgiving meals, and the Island Harvest Food Bank prioritizes distributing these resources through its network of over 300 food pantries, soup kitchens, and other programs dedicated to fighting hunger across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Current trends indicate that the demand for food is at an all-time high; for instance, 240,470 Long Islanders were reported to be food insecure, a sharp increase of 10% from the previous year. Among children, 44,520 are also grappling with similar challenges—a stark reminder of the critical work being undertaken.
Randi Shubin Dresner, President and CEO of Island Harvest, expressed gratitude for the support from the FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, highlighting that continued backing is essential amid looming federal cutbacks and economic uncertainties. "These contributions impact our neighbors in need positively, ensuring they have a happier and more hopeful holiday season," she stated.
The FourLeaf Turkey Drive is not just a charitable event; it’s a manifestation of solidarity during challenging times. With the growing costs of living and essential goods, many Long Island families find themselves on precarious financial footing, often forced to choose between basic needs such as rent, transportation, medical care, and adequate food. The drive illustrates the profound effect of community involvement; every turkey shared alleviates some of the hardship faced by families throughout the region.
The success of this year's drive aligns with the ongoing commitment of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union to support its community. Established over 80 years ago, the credit union is the largest in the Northeast and continually invests in local initiatives through their FourLeaf Cares Program, which promotes equity, belonging, and healthier communities. With a robust digital banking platform and vast access points across the country, they are more than just a financial institution; they are a pillar of their community.
The FourLeaf Turkey Drive stands as a testament to the power of collective action and shared concern, demonstrating what can be achieved when caring individuals and organizations unite for a common cause. As the event continues to thrive, it inspires hope for many and sets an example for other regions to follow in combating food insecurity effectively, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving with a meal on the table.
For those interested in learning more about how they can contribute or support similar initiatives, further information is available through Island Harvest Food Bank's official website and the FourLeaf Federal Credit Union.
This year’s commitment and results are not just a one-time achievement; they ignite a call to action for future efforts to address the needs of those less fortunate, reminding us all of our shared responsibility for one another.
Since its inception in 2008, the FourLeaf Turkey Drive has progressively grown, amassing nearly 60,000 turkeys and 290,000 pounds of food to support families in need. The initiative not only demonstrates the strength of community spirit but reflects the increasing necessity for such efforts, especially when statistics reveal alarming figures: one in 12 Long Islanders, totaling over 240,000 people, are grappling with food insecurity as of 2023.
Linda Armyn, President and CEO of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, articulated the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Each year, the FourLeaf Turkey Drive reminds us of what's possible when a community comes together. We are grateful for the corporate partners and countless individuals who contributed to this year's success. Their generosity is the heartbeat of this effort."
The donations from the Turkey Drive ensure that many families can enjoy Thanksgiving meals, and the Island Harvest Food Bank prioritizes distributing these resources through its network of over 300 food pantries, soup kitchens, and other programs dedicated to fighting hunger across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Current trends indicate that the demand for food is at an all-time high; for instance, 240,470 Long Islanders were reported to be food insecure, a sharp increase of 10% from the previous year. Among children, 44,520 are also grappling with similar challenges—a stark reminder of the critical work being undertaken.
Randi Shubin Dresner, President and CEO of Island Harvest, expressed gratitude for the support from the FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, highlighting that continued backing is essential amid looming federal cutbacks and economic uncertainties. "These contributions impact our neighbors in need positively, ensuring they have a happier and more hopeful holiday season," she stated.
The FourLeaf Turkey Drive is not just a charitable event; it’s a manifestation of solidarity during challenging times. With the growing costs of living and essential goods, many Long Island families find themselves on precarious financial footing, often forced to choose between basic needs such as rent, transportation, medical care, and adequate food. The drive illustrates the profound effect of community involvement; every turkey shared alleviates some of the hardship faced by families throughout the region.
The success of this year's drive aligns with the ongoing commitment of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union to support its community. Established over 80 years ago, the credit union is the largest in the Northeast and continually invests in local initiatives through their FourLeaf Cares Program, which promotes equity, belonging, and healthier communities. With a robust digital banking platform and vast access points across the country, they are more than just a financial institution; they are a pillar of their community.
The FourLeaf Turkey Drive stands as a testament to the power of collective action and shared concern, demonstrating what can be achieved when caring individuals and organizations unite for a common cause. As the event continues to thrive, it inspires hope for many and sets an example for other regions to follow in combating food insecurity effectively, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving with a meal on the table.
For those interested in learning more about how they can contribute or support similar initiatives, further information is available through Island Harvest Food Bank's official website and the FourLeaf Federal Credit Union.
This year’s commitment and results are not just a one-time achievement; they ignite a call to action for future efforts to address the needs of those less fortunate, reminding us all of our shared responsibility for one another.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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