Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank Adjusts Food Distribution For A Pandemic Holiday Season

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced foodbanks to approach the holiday season differently. The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank is offering several options for community members in need.

The foodbank switched to a contactless drive-thru system for food distribution to decrease the spread of the virus while still serving the community. Public Relations and Communications Manager Raven Gayheart said there will be two grocery distributions coming up, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Dec. 3 and 22.

“So there’s no need to pre-register or sign up. You simply come to the foodbank on those days, and we will briefly check you in, and you just pop your trunk, and our staff, volunteers and Ohio National Guard members will ensure you have food for the month of December,” Gayheart said.

The foodbank has been working hard to ensure community members can still have an enjoyable holiday season despite the worries of the pandemic, she said.

“We have been trying to make sure that all families are able to gather around the dinner table this year and be able to enjoy a holiday meal together,” Gayheart said. “We realize that food brings people together. Food helps make lasting memories. So it’s really important to us to make sure that holiday meal still feels special this year even with everything going on.”

The holiday season is usually a time when community members give back to the foodbank, she said. This year, virtual fundraisers have replaced in-person volunteer work and workplace food and funding drives. Community members can still host their own virtual fundraiser or contribute to the foodbank’s Double Dollar Day fundraiser. And the foodbank is hosting the Selfless Elf 5k, a virtual race, on Dec. 19 to raise funds and awareness.

If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, visit the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank's website or call (330) 535-6900.

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