Photo courtesy of the Bob Woodruff Foundation
Craig Newmark Philanthropies announced a $3 million grant to the Bob Woodruff Foundation in support of an initiative to help feed veterans across America.
According to their joint press release, the Bob Woodruff Foundation is responding to exacerbated food insecurity caused by the pandemic, which has left food banks in a difficult position to serve those who have served us.
“Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of Americans are experiencing financial strain and food insecurity, which has led to food banks facing a perpetual, diminishing food supply,” said the press release.
“In the near-term to address this urgent need,” the press release continued, “BWF is providing stimulus funding to tackle hunger and food insecurity among the veteran population, while continuing to build a sustainable plan of action to support veterans and their families in the long-term.”
“Veterans sacrifice so much through their service – when they come back home, it’s simply not right that they have trouble getting enough to eat,” said philanthropist and founder of craigslist Craig Newmark. “We want our veterans to know their fellow Americans have ‘got your 6’, to borrow a military expression. That’s why I am investing in the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s efforts to tackle this issue and help our military heroes and their families thrive through this pandemic and into the future.” Craig Newmark also serves on the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s board of directors.
The Bob Woodruff Foundation cites statistics that show that the food insecurity rate among veterans is nearly twice that of the general U.S. population, and pointed out that this was a problem that has only been exacerbated by the coronavirus.
“We knew food insecurity was a growing concern based on our research combined with insights from our grantees and Local Partners on the ground in communities across the country,” said Anne Marie Dougherty, Chief Executive Officer of the Bob Woodruff Foundation. “Over a quarter of our 2020 grantees are already addressing this issue directly or indirectly. With Craig Newmark’s incredibly generous support, the Bob Woodruff Foundation will be able to expand our critical support for veterans struggling to put food on the table during this difficult time.”
And, for those veterans who are looking for support in time for the holidays, the Bob Woodruff Foundation is also coordinating with the NYC Department of Veteran Services to donate 400 frozen turkeys in time for a Thanksgiving celebration.
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