West Side Campaign Against Hunger

Please note WSCAH will be closed this Monday, October 14th in honor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day—a time to reflect on the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous communities. At WSCAH, we recognize the importance of supporting and uplifting these voices. As we work to combat hunger and food insecurity, let’s also commit to learning from Indigenous practices that promote sustainability and community resilience. Together, we can create a more equitable future for all.

Join us for WSCAH's annual Plentiful Plates fundraiser! On Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, we're gathering at the renowned Tavern on the Green for a meaningful evening dedicated to the fight against hunger. This year’s event will include hands-on opportunities to help pack food for our customers, learn about our impact, and engage in advocacy efforts. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a powerful night of giving and change! Get your tickets or donate now: https://lnkd.in/e--nKqvd

WSCAH is excited to announce a new partnership with Ten Mile Farm Foundation (https://lnkd.in/e_UVww5G), that grows and donates fresh produce for emergency food providers. In just three weeks we received over 6,500 pounds of butternut squash, tomatoes, and potatoes to distribute to our customers! Fun fact: Gibson, one of the co-founders, was inspired to start the farm through his time volunteering at WSCAH’s 86th Street pantry. We're excited to bring this fresh produce to our community! 

As we step into Fall we are excited to invite you to volunteer with us in November during our holiday distribution! This year we will have special volunteer opportunities on Saturdays and Mondays in November. All available shifts will be posted exclusively on VolunteerHub. Sign up today at: https://lnkd.in/e55k7JAy

WSCAH is excited to share our podcast, Hangry for Change! With six powerful episodes already out, you’ll hear all about our work, history, and the amazing people who drive what we do. Our back to school focused Episode 7 is coming next week , so tune in and don’t miss a beat! Scan the code and listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or SoundCloud!

REMINDER! Tickets are now available for WSCAH's annual fundraiser, Plentiful Plates! Join us on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, at the iconic Tavern on the Green for an unforgettable evening all in support of fighting hunger. This year we will have opportunities for you to help us pack food for our customers, learn more about our work, and engage in advocacy efforts. Don't miss out on this special night to help make a difference!   Secure your tickets or donate today at: https://lnkd.in/e--nKqvd

Last week, WSCAH welcomed volunteers from Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The team dedicated their time to pack and distribute fresh produce at our 86th Street location. Their hard work made a significant impact on our community, ensuring families have access to nutritious food. Thank you to everyone who participated—together, we’re making a difference!

The Roundtable: Allies for Food Access is a dedicated network of emergency food providers committed to ensuring no neighbor goes hungry. Fellow Roundtable member, Met Council, is shining a data-driven spotlight on the gap in halal and kosher food access in New York through their landmark initiative, Mapping the Need: Identifying Kosher and Halal Emergency Food Needs in New York State, in partnership with the New York Health Foundation. Their research found that over 40% of respondents identified unmet kosher or halal food needs in their areas. While direct service is often seen as the primary tool of charities, those on the frontlines—like Met Council—know it takes data, research, and policy advocacy to drive true systemic change. Read the initiative now: https://lnkd.in/eCRBVEtK

September is Hunger Action Month, and your voice can make a real difference! Join us in urging Congress to pass a strong Farm Bill that fights hunger—write your representatives today! Also, contact your local reps via https://www.mygovnyc.org/ to demand increased Community Food Connections funding and SNAP access in the Farm Bill. If you're a New Yorker, ask Governor Hochul to expand state food benefits for households currently ineligible due to their citizenship status. Let’s take action together!   Need help getting started? Here are some examples of advocacy postcards to inspire your prompts!

From September 15th to October 15th, we celebrate the vibrant contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. At WSCAH, more than 70% of our customers and 63% of our staff are Hispanic/Latinx, underscoring their central role in serving our mission.   With incredible partners like the Dominican Women’s Development Center (DWDC)'s and Mexican Coalition, we’re proud to work together in building a more inclusive, equitable, and supportive community for all.