North Tidewater News

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) is set to hold its second annual Drive Out Hunger Food and Fund Drive on January 15, aiming to support the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. This initiative aligns with National Poverty Awareness Month in January and is organized by HRT Cares, a group dedicated to assisting employees and community organizations.

"We are proud to host this food drive and support our local food banks," stated William E. Harrell, President and CEO at Hampton Roads Transit. "HRT cares about the community it serves, and we believe in the power of coming together to make a meaningful difference."

The timing of this drive is crucial as food banks often see a decline in donations during this period. The initiative seeks to bridge this gap, especially for children who depend on school meals for nutrition during weekdays.

"This will benefit children who rely on school meals as their primary source of nutrition during the week, ensuring they have access to food over the weekend," said Christopher Tan, President and CEO at the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. "We extend our heartfelt thanks to HRT for recognizing the profound impact that every donation can have on the lives of those in need."

Last year’s efforts saw HRT employees contribute nearly 700 meals for families facing hardship. This year’s target is set at collecting at least 1,000 meals with public participation encouraged.

Donations will be accepted from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on January 15 at two locations: Hampton Roads Transit Administrative Building lobby in Norfolk and Hampton Transit Center lobby in Hampton.

Items most needed include canned meat, cereal, oatmeal, pasta meals and sauces, hearty pop-top soups, condiments, kitchen essentials like cooking oil and flour, low-sugar canned fruit, canned vegetables, instant potatoes and rice, 100 percent fruit juices, canned or dry beans, healthy snacks such as granola bars, baby food and formula along with peanut butter and jelly.

The Virginia Peninsula Foodbank has been combating hunger since 1986 across various cities including Hampton and Williamsburg among others. Similarly active since 1981 is the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia which has distributed over 400 million meals across eleven cities where one in ten residents face food insecurity.

For more information about HRT's services or involvement opportunities with these organizations visit their respective websites.