This year’s challenge comes at a critical time, according to Cynthia Frank of the San Francisco Food Bank.
“This matching grant will allow us to purchase much-needed food at discounted rates to meet the increasing demands in our community,” she said.
Over 50 Jewish organizations, including synagogues, day schools, Jewish Community Centers, federations and book stores are participating in the drive, conducted in collaboration with 10 local food banks.
For information, call (800) 870-FOOD or the Poverty Action Alliance at (415) 974-1287.
Meanwhile, in the East Bay, the Alameda County Community Food Bank is collecting food for 96,000 low-income persons in the county through its 280 network agencies.
The drive began on Rosh Hashanah and will continue through Yom Kippur.
Last year’s High Holiday Food Drive raised more than 5,500 pounds of food, according to the ACCFC. So far this year, 22 synagogues and Jewish organizations have signed up to participate. All hope to break last year’s record.
The ACCFC says every 1-1/4 lbs. of food or 40 cents collected allows the food bank to feed one person a nutritious meal.
For information, call Tom Gleeson at (510) 568-FOOD, ext. 304.