Combating Food Insecurity: WSFS Bank's Impactful Annual Food Drive

In a time of rising costs and economic uncertainty, WSFS Bank is stepping up to address the growing issue of food insecurity in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware region. Through its annual Food Drive, the bank is rallying the community to donate non-perishable items and make a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling to put food on the table.

Empowering Communities, Nourishing Families

Kickstarting the Food Drive with Community Partners

WSFS Bank has officially launched its annual Food Drive, kicking things off with the support of two esteemed community organizations – the Sunday Breakfast Mission in Wilmington, Delaware, and Sharing Excess in Philadelphia. By partnering with these groups, WSFS is leveraging their expertise and established networks to maximize the impact of the drive.The bank's associates, customers, and community members are encouraged to bring non-perishable donations to WSFS banking offices across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. These offices will serve as collection centers, ensuring that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a meaningful difference.

Addressing the Growing Need for Food Assistance

According to the Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap 2024 report, the number of individuals living in food-insecure households has sharply increased from 10.4% in 2021 to 13.5% in 2022, equating to more than 44 million people. The report also reveals that nearly 50% of those facing hunger are unlikely to qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the United States' largest food assistance program.This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for community-driven initiatives like WSFS Bank's Food Drive. By partnering with organizations like the Sunday Breakfast Mission and Sharing Excess, the bank is poised to make a tangible impact in the lives of those struggling to put food on the table.

Fostering a Spirit of Giving and Community Engagement

"Many households are struggling to put food on the table due to the surging cost of living and essentials," said Vernita L. Dorsey, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Strategy at WSFS Bank. "We hope to make a difference by partnering with Sharing Excess and the Sunday Breakfast Mission. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a big difference. We ask those who have the means to donate non-perishable items at our banking offices to support these vital needs."The bank's commitment to the community is further demonstrated through its ongoing sponsorship of the Preston & Steve's Camp Out for Hunger event, which supports Philabundance in their mission to drive hunger from the region. This annual initiative, now in its seventh consecutive year, has become a beloved tradition that brings the community together to make a tangible difference.

Fostering Lasting Partnerships and Sustainable Change

"We are excited to once again partner with WSFS for their annual holiday Food Drive," said Evan Ehlers, Founder and CEO of Sharing Excess. "The holiday season is a time for community, and WSFS customers have a unique opportunity to make a direct impact in the fight against food insecurity by donating at their local banking office. We deeply value WSFS' ongoing dedication to supporting their communities and creating meaningful, lasting change through their partnership with Sharing Excess."Similarly, Rev. Tom Laymon, Senior Pastor/CEO/President at Sunday Breakfast Mission, expressed gratitude for the bank's long-standing partnership, stating, "For the 22nd year, WSFS Bank and Sunday Breakfast Mission are partnering on our Food Drive that has collected food for over 1.3M meals for families in need over the years. But right now, Sunday Breakfast Mission is seeing more people than ever coming to them for help. We need the food donations to flood in so that hungry families can have a great Thanksgiving season. We are so grateful to WSFS Bank sponsoring once again."These enduring partnerships and the community's enthusiastic response to the Food Drive demonstrate the power of collective action in addressing the pressing issue of food insecurity. As WSFS Bank continues to lead the charge, the region can look forward to a future where no one goes hungry, and families can enjoy the nourishment and comfort of a warm meal.