At a recent charity gala hosted by Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster, ShopRite Supermarket representatives handed over an impressive donation check amounting to $75,770. This generous contribution marks the supermarket chain's 11th annual Feeding Our Neighbors campaign, aimed at supporting food pantries across the Hudson Valley region. Since its inception in 2014, this initiative has raised over $868,000, providing vital support for numerous anti-hunger programs run by Catholic Charities within the Archdiocese of New York. The funds and non-perishable goods collected during this two-week campaign are essential in addressing food insecurity issues faced by local communities.

The Feeding Our Neighbors campaign is a biannual event where ShopRite stores throughout the Hudson Valley engage their customers in fundraising efforts to combat hunger. Over the past decade, these combined efforts have equated to more than 3,475,000 meals being provided to those in need. During the most recent campaign, which took place in March, ShopRite’s 26 locations participated actively, raising funds through checkout donations. The total monetary donation amounted to approximately 303,000 meals, reflecting a strong commitment from both employees and shoppers alike.

This year's ceremonial check presentation occurred at the Celebration of Charity dinner held at Resorts World Catskills in Monticello. Mike Schoendorf, Vice President of Operations at ShopRite, presented the check to Thomas Strahle, Board Chair, and Shannon Kelly, CEO of Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster. Leading contributors among ShopRite stores included the Chester location, raising $8,725; Monticello, contributing $3,347; and New Paltz, bringing in $1,840. These funds will be distributed among various Catholic Charities agencies serving Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Ulster, Sullivan, and Westchester counties.

Shannon Kelly, CEO of Catholic Charities, expressed deep gratitude towards ShopRite Supermarkets for their unwavering dedication to community welfare. He highlighted that such partnerships significantly enhance the organization's ability to address food insecurity effectively. Mike Schoendorf reiterated ShopRite's philosophy of giving back to the communities where their associates reside and work, emphasizing the importance of localized efforts in fighting hunger.

While the Feeding Our Neighbors campaign spans only two weeks annually, the battle against hunger continues year-round. Individuals interested in contributing financially or donating food can reach out to their nearest Catholic Charities office or visit their website for more information. For those seeking assistance, contact details for offices in Orange (845-561-1665), Sullivan (845-794-8080), and Ulster (845-340-9170) counties are available.

Through collaborative efforts like these, ShopRite Supermarkets and Catholic Charities exemplify how impactful community engagement can lead to meaningful change. Their shared vision ensures that no one in the Hudson Valley goes hungry, fostering a supportive environment for all residents.