FOX 5 Volunteers Pack 400 Boxes for Hungry D.C. Seniors

Volunteers rolled up their sleeves at the Capital Area Food Bank this week, packing 400 boxes of fresh food destined for seniors who might otherwise go hungry.

FOX 5 DC employees joined the effort Wednesday as part of FOX Corporation's celebration of America's 250th anniversary. The day of service highlighted a simple truth: neighbors helping neighbors still matters.

The boxes represent just a tiny slice of what the food bank accomplishes daily. Last fiscal year, the organization distributed 65 million meals across D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia, and this year's total is expected to be even higher.

The need keeps growing. One in three people in the Washington region now experiences some level of food insecurity, according to the food bank.

"Folks who were experiencing food insecurity five years ago are probably now experiencing even more food insecurity," said Abby Fenton, the organization's Chief Advancement Officer. The aftermath of COVID, combined with economic uncertainty and workforce reductions, has created a perfect storm of need.

The Capital Area Food Bank doesn't just hand out any food. Forty percent of what it distributes is fresh produce, and the organization maintains high nutritional standards across everything it provides.

"Think about what you want on your table," Fenton said. "You want greens, you want whole grains, you want protein."

The Ripple Effect

The food bank's reach extends far beyond Wednesday's 400 boxes. The organization partners with more than 400 community organizations, from local food pantries to schools and nonprofits, identifying the areas of greatest need and delivering food directly to families, children and seniors.

None of this happens without volunteers. Thirteen thousand people volunteer at the food bank every year, and their hands make the entire operation possible.

"The food bank does not run without our volunteers," said Melanie Minzes, Deputy Chief Development Officer.

Summer poses a particular challenge. Donations often drop during these months even though hunger doesn't take a vacation. The food bank welcomes volunteers, food donations and financial contributions year-round to keep nutritious meals flowing to those who need them most.

Every box packed, every hour volunteered, every dollar donated creates a ripple that reaches families across the region.