A unique food distribution series brings meals to City of Utica residents.
October 9, 2020 - Utica, NY -
United Way of the Mohawk Valley (United Way MV) is distributing 1,500 meal boxes on October 25, 2020 in the City of Utica. This is the first of a three-part food distribution series hosted by United Way MV.
These unique meal boxes include ingredients to prepare 5 meals for a family of 5 with corresponding step-by-step recipes cards. United Way has partnered with Casa Imports and Karam Produce, allowing families to expect fresh produce, meat, and other ingredients as part of their meal boxes. Each meal box will also include 50 disposable masks courtesy of Bank of America.
“Casa Imports and Karam Produce is excited to again partner in United Way MV’s community outreach efforts. We always appreciate the opportunity to assist local organizations to provide for families in need,” said Ryan Sunderlin, Casa Import’s Director of Fresh Produce Operations.
United Way’s Take and Make meal box distribution series will put a total of 4,500 meal boxes in the homes of City of Utica residents. The series powered by United Way MV is funded through is funded through a grant from the City of Utica out of their Community Development Block Grant CV – CARES Act as part of COVID-19 relief efforts.
“With this funding United Way MV created an opportunity to help bring healthy, fresh meals to the tables of thousands of families,” said Erin Gutierrez Matt, United Way MV CEO. “Our ability to connect with local businesses and scale a project like this food distribution is an example of why United Way is such a valuable asset to the Mohawk Valley.” COVID-19 has affected everyone in some way. Many people have felt a financial impact. Everyone should have access to life’s basic needs, such as food.
United Way is seeking volunteers to assist with packing and distributing meal boxes on October 23, October 24, and October 25. Volunteers can sign-up through United Way’s Volunteers United online platform. Visit www.unitedwaymv.org/uticafood for volunteer details and to sign-up.
“We will need about 20 volunteers to help us lift this effort,” stated Betty-Joan Beaudry, United Way MV’s Director of Community Impact and 211. “If you are looking for a way to volunteer to help residents of the Mohawk Valley this is a great safe yet hands on opportunity.”
United Way’s Take and Make meal boxes will be available to City of Utica residents by reservation. Families and individuals can reserve their meal box and receive full distribution pick-up location and time details by texting UticaFood to 898-211. For residents who are unable to text, they may call 1-844-DIAL-211. The distribution will be a drive or walk through style pick-up.
Click here for more on United Way’s Take and Make meal box series.
