Greater Cleveland Food Bank launches 35th annual Harvest for Hunger campaign

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - The Greater Cleveland Food Bank launched its 35th annual Harvest for Hunger campaign Tuesday, seeking to raise $11.5 million as food insecurity across Northeast Ohio remains at critically high levels.

The food bank served more than 404,000 people last year, roughly the same number as during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Inflation is still high. Food costs are still high. There’s still a lot of uncertainty,” said Karen Pozna, director of communications and special events for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Record distribution highlights growing need

In November alone, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank distributed 7 million pounds of food — 2 million more than an average month.

“It just goes to show how people live paycheck to paycheck. That not having those benefits really sent them into a tail spin,” Pozna said.

The campaign supports partner organizations like St. Gabriel Food Pantry in Lake County, which serves more than 20,000 people each year.

“Without the help of the Cleveland Food Bank, we could not serve a tenth of those people,” said Paul Lewis, board president of St. Gabriel Food Pantry.

Lewis said the pantry serves clients from all walks of life, including an older retired nurse whose husband suddenly passed away and was having difficulty balancing her budget.

“She was met with such dignity and love,” Lewis said.

That widow now volunteers at the St. Gabriel Food Pantry, helping others facing similar struggles.

How to donate

Donations can be made at participating supermarkets including Giant Eagle, Heinen’s and Dave’s Markets. Online donations are also accepted.

The campaign runs through May.

You can also make an online donation by clicking here.