Who knew you could take a Zumba class, buy cookies, or eat pizza for a cause? Those are just a few of the creative ways our community has come together to give back in recent weeks.
Our region is home to more than 370,000 federal employees. So when the federal government shut down, we knew that missed paychecks would put many households at risk of food insecurity. In an area with a high cost of living, even a brief loss of income can quickly make it difficult for families to afford essentials like food, rent, and utilities.
That’s why we quickly began organizing additional food distributions for federal workers and contractors. Each week, hundreds of households received boxes filled with fresh produce and pantry staples, and so many shared how much that support meant to them. We could not have met this need without the generosity of a community that stepped up to give.
From local businesses to individual supporters, we’ve seen generosity in every form — food drives, restaurant events, digital fundraisers, and more. This outpouring of support shows how strong we are when we show up together.
Across the region, restaurants, community groups, dance studios, and local shops all found ways to turn everyday activities into opportunities to give back.
Some highlights include:
Dolcezza and The Little Grand teaming up for a sold-out “Slices + Soft Serve” fundraiser — a two-night event where every ticket for pizza and soft serve supported CAFB.
The Fit4Mom Montgomery County community incorporating canned goods (later donated) into one of their workout classes.
Smart Cookie BakeLab donating a portion of cookie sales to CAFB. “We started our Cookies for a Cause effort to use our small business to support what we believe in! As a former federal employee and community member, I love seeing what Capital Area Food Bank is doing to support federal workers and all our neighbors in need!” — Dr. Becca, Smart Cookie BakeLab
We also saw those who were impacted giving back, with many furloughed federal employees stepping in to volunteer.
Since October 1, more than 240 digital fundraisers have started to support our work, compared to 37 during the same period last year. And thanks to collective effort, community food drives brought in more than 15,000 pounds of food on November 3 alone, a powerful reminder of what’s possible when people unite for a cause.
We wouldn’t be able to meet the increased need without this incredible support and we’re so grateful for every person, business, and group that’s made a difference.
Interested in giving back?