The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia was established as a non-profit clearinghouse for donated food in March 1981. The Foodbank relies heavily upon the generosity of multiple donors and volunteers to keep its warehouse shelves full. Manufacturer's product mislabeling, surplus commodities from restaurateurs, fundraising events, contributions from private citizens and United Way funds are critical elements in an elaborate supply pipeline which keeps the agency in operation. The help received is essential to providing not only food, but clothes and other basic necessities to the area's poor. Nearly 100,000 children in South Hampton Roads experience hunger each year.
Children account for nearly half of all hungry persons in America.
More than one million emergency meals a month are served in Virginia. Hunger seriously impacts one in eight families in Virginia.