WORCESTER—The Worcester County Food Bank is getting some funding as part of a new national initiative by Bank of America aimed at addressing hunger and other basic needs, according to a company announcement released earlier this month.
Bank of America has committed $250 million over the next five years to support food security and essential services for families across the country. As part of the initiative, the bank is distributing $5 million this holiday season to nearly 100 nonprofit organizations working to address urgent food needs.
In New England, the bank is providing a total of $240,000 to hunger-relief organizations, including the Worcester County Food Bank, to help meet increased demand during the winter months.
Other Massachusetts recipients include The Greater Boston Food Bank and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Food banks in Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Maine are also included in the regional funding.
According to the announcement, the grants are intended to help food banks expand access to fresh produce and pantry staples, strengthen meal programs, and improve distribution and logistics as households face rising food insecurity.
“Our ongoing commitment to the needs of the local communities where we work and live is foundational to who we are at Bank of America,” Sheri Bronstein, chief people officer at Bank of America, said in the announcement. “We work closely with food banks, food pantries, and other basic needs-focused organizations every day, and this new commitment builds on decades of giving, volunteering, and partnership.”
Bank of America said the holiday-season contributions build on its long-term partnerships with nonprofit organizations focused on health, employment and community stability, particularly during periods when demand for food assistance is highest.
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