PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — The 28th Annual Mayflower Marathon Food Drive raised enough donations to serve more than 914,000 meals.
The annual food drive collected donations at five locations simultaneously: Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach, the Kroger’s at Coliseum Central, North Suffolk, and Tabb, and at the Moyock Welcome Center.
Contributions in Virginia Beach and Suffolk were directed to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, while those from the Hampton and Tabb locations were allocated to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank. Donations from the Moyock Welcome Center benefitted the Foodbank of the Albemarle.
“Once again our community has come together to help our friends and neighbors who may be in need,” said Carol Commander, General Manager of WNOR and WAFX. “So many listeners, sponsors, and area businesses responded to the call and we THANK YOU! Truly an incredible outpouring of generosity of so many people here in Hampton Roads. The shelves at the Foodbank are now overflowing. The FM99 and 106.9 The Fox 28th Annual Mayflower Marathon will create more than 914,000 meals! We thank the Foodbanks and everyone who made a donation!”
Smithfield Foods helped to provide 50,000 pounds of protein during the drive, which went towards the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank and the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
“Smithfield Foods is honored to continue our support for the Mayflower Marathon, which makes a real difference for many local families and individuals facing food insecurity this holiday season,” vice presidents of community development for Smithfield Foods Steve Evans said. “Through our protein donation and employee volunteers, we can bring hope and relief for our neighbors in need.”
Donations from Smithfield Foods included bacon, ham and smoked sausages. According to a release, over 40 local Smithfield employees volunteered to help with the drive.
