Feeding Minds and Fueling Futures: I-66 EMP's Commitment to Nourishing Fairfax County's Schoolchildren

In a heartwarming display of community support, employees and associates of I-66 Express Mobility Partners (I-66 EMP), the builder and operator of the 66 Express Outside the Beltway, have rallied together to provide much-needed assistance to the area's school-aged children. Through a collaborative initiative with the safety-net provider Food for Others, the team has packed an impressive 660 Power Packs, ensuring that underprivileged students in Fairfax County have access to nutritious meals on the weekends.

Empowering Students, Enriching Communities

Addressing the Issue of Childhood Hunger

The Power Pack Program, a vital initiative spearheaded by Food for Others, aims to alleviate the burden of hunger faced by thousands of students in Fairfax County. These backpack meals are designed to provide children with the sustenance they need to return to school each Monday, ready to learn and thrive. By ensuring that students have access to a balanced diet of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, the program plays a crucial role in supporting their academic success and overall well-being.

Fostering Partnerships for Lasting Impact

The collaboration between I-66 EMP and Food for Others extends beyond the recent packing event. In addition to the hands-on support, I-66 EMP has also contributed a generous $10,000 donation to the organization, further strengthening their commitment to the cause. This multifaceted approach, combining financial resources and volunteer efforts, demonstrates the company's dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of Fairfax County's schoolchildren.

Empowering the Next Generation

Deb Haynes, the executive director of Food for Others, expressed her gratitude for I-66 EMP's involvement, stating, "We talk about making a difference, and EMP's donation of time and funding truly makes a significant difference for kids around Fairfax County." This sentiment underscores the profound impact that such collaborative efforts can have on the community, as they work to ensure that no child is left behind in their pursuit of academic success and personal growth.

Fostering a Culture of Giving

Nancy Smith, the corporate-affairs director for I-66 EMP, echoed the importance of addressing food insecurity among the area's schoolchildren. "It's hard for a child to learn when they're hungry. That's why fighting against food insecurity among our area's schoolchildren is crucial to our support of local public education and school readiness," she said. This commitment to supporting local education and nurturing the next generation of leaders is a testament to I-66 EMP's corporate values and their dedication to making a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Expanding the Reach of Food for Others

Food for Others, one of the largest providers of emergency food assistance in Northern Virginia, serves an impressive 2,600 families per week and distributes weekend meal packs to roughly 3,700 students weekly. The organization's tireless efforts, combined with the support of partners like I-66 EMP, have been instrumental in addressing the pressing issue of food insecurity among the region's schoolchildren. By working together, they are not only providing immediate relief but also laying the groundwork for a more equitable and nourishing future for the community.