Contribute to Feds Feed Families Campaign
Help provide families in need with nutritious meals. NIH’s Feds Feed Families campaign is accepting donations until Sept. 30.
The program, initiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, aims to help connect workers across federal agencies with local community food banks.
“The mission behind the Feds Feed Families Program was really to find a way for the federal government to help provide families in need with much-needed food resources that they struggle to get,” explained Amenities Programs Branch Chief Gregg Nelson.
Nelson, who arrived at NIH a little over a year ago, oversees outreach and is organizing this year’s campaign. Although primarily virtual, there have been in-person components, including events with local markets hosting food donation trucks. Those interested in donating somewhere directly can also visit one of NIH’s local food bank partnerships at the Children’s Inn at NIH, Safra Family Lodge, Capital Area Food Bank and the Manna Food Center.
“People really want to have that physical exchange of knowing they’re getting involved by putting a can in a bin or in a donation truck,” said Nelson.
Nelson, alongside FFF ambassadors from each of NIH’s institutes and centers, have set a goal of donating 150,000 pounds of nonperishable goods over the course of the year.
“Goods (can) mean dry packaged products like pastas, and [other products] that have a long, stable shelf-life,” Nelson said.
NIH’ers who wish to donate can connect with their IC ambassador to find out where they can donate groceries or cash. Donations also can come in the form of volunteer hours. If you donate in any way, you are encouraged to register your donation under the NIH on the national donation tracker: https://rb.gy/7slmni.
“Families who benefit from this program are struggling to get the foods they need to live a healthy lifestyle,” he said, “and so we are getting involved in helping to nourish and feed these families.”
To donate, or to learn how to get involved, see go.nih.gov/J5MoymN.