SOUTH EDMESTON – During the pandemic, food insecurity among American households with children grew significantly, according to a report released last month by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As students settle into a new school year in Central New York, the issue of hunger remains a daily threat for many.

This unfortunate reality sparked action by New York-based food maker Chobani and the Utica non-profit Compassion Coalition. Together, they purchased, donated, and delivered $29,000 worth of food and supplies to help four local backpack programs in Central New York last week.

“Last year’s school year was extremely stressful for students, teachers, and parents – and when schools weren’t in session, an additional burden was placed on families facing food insecurity,” said Peter McGuinness, Chobani President and Chief Operating Officer. “As school got underway this year, we outreached to our valued partners at Compassion Coalition to see if we could join forces and do some good.”

“We are excited to partner with our friends at Chobani for this distribution,” said Mike Servello, Compassion Coalition Founder and CEO. “Serving our friends and neighbors and meeting practical needs is our passion. Working with a company like Chobani that truly cares for others is a privilege and a pleasure for us.”

Chobani distributed more than 1,200 cases of shelf-stable food to Edmeston Central School, Unadilla Valley School District, Sherburne-Earlville Central School, and Norwich City Schools. The donated food restocks school food pantries and helps feed more than 200 children and their families throughout the year.

Chobani is also sending 200,000 Chobani products to those affected by Hurricane Ida. The company recently delivered an additional 100,000 products to Afghan evacuees in temporary housing across the country, and the US servicemen and women supporting them. 

-from Chobani