Navy Federal Credit Union and Feeding America have launched a new initiative, No Plate Left Behind, aimed at supporting military families facing food insecurity. This effort comes as part of a broader commitment to address hunger issues among servicemembers, veterans, and their families across the United States.
According to the Military Family Advisory Network's 2023 survey, one in five military families experience food insecurity, with this number rising to one in four among active duty families. In response to these figures, Navy Federal has pledged $50,000 to support Feeding America's mission.
Captain Keith Hoskins (USN Retired), executive vice president of branch operations at Navy Federal, emphasized the importance of removing barriers for military families to access food. "Together with Feeding America, we’re proud to continue advancing efforts to help our military and Veteran community put food on their tables," he stated.
Last year’s campaign raised over $132,000 through No Plate Left Behind, equating to 1.32 million meals donated to food banks serving large military populations. Navy Federal employees also contributed by donating more than 3,500 pounds of food nationwide.
The public can participate in this year's campaign until October 31 by donating via www.noplateleftbehind.com or through QR codes available at Navy Federal branches. Every $5 donation provides the equivalent of 50 meals.
September marks Hunger Action Month, during which Navy Federal is encouraging its employees to engage in various activities such as setting up collection bins for non-perishable foods and volunteering at local Feeding America partner food banks.
Brandi Gomez, manager of corporate social responsibility at Navy Federal, highlighted the organization's dedication: "Whether through time, treasure or talent, it’s part of our mission to connect employees to causes that mean the most to them."
Feeding America distributed 5.3 billion meals last year through its network of over 200 food banks and numerous partner agencies. Lauren Biedron from Feeding America expressed enthusiasm about continuing collaboration with Navy Federal: “The No Plate Left Behind campaign... brings us closer to an America where no one is hungry.”
For further details on how Navy Federal is contributing to alleviating food insecurity within the military community, interested parties can visit their website.