On June 19th, the Westminster Rescue Mission, in partnership with United Way of Central Maryland, held the inaugural drive-thru food distribution event at Elmer Wolfe Elementary in Union Bridge. This event marked the beginning of a crucial initiative to combat food insecurity in a region identified as a functional food desert. We are thrilled to share the success of this event and the impact it has had on our community.
A Community Effort
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible volunteers and key players who made this event possible. Your dedication and hard work ensured that families in need received essential support. Special thanks to:
- Franklyn Baker, CEO of United Way of Central Maryland
- Martina Martin, SVP and Chief Operating Officer at United Way of Central Maryland
- Edwin F. Singer, Manager, Local Management Board for Children, Youth, and Families, Carroll County Department of Citizen Services
- Celene Funk Steckel, Director of Citizen Services and WRM board member
Your involvement demonstrates the power of community collaboration in addressing food insecurity.
Event Highlights
The drive-thru format allowed for efficient and safe distribution of food, with families receiving an allotment based on their family size. We were able to serve numerous families, ensuring they have the nutritious food they need, especially during the challenging summer months when school meal programs are unavailable.
Why This Initiative Matters
More than 27% of Carroll County Public School students rely on free and reduced-price meals during the school year. With the end of the school year, many families face increased financial strain, turning to local food pantries for help. Seniors on fixed incomes also depend on these pantries year-round, and the summer months are particularly difficult as pantry supplies often run low.
Looking Ahead
The Union Bridge drive-thru food distribution will continue on the third Wednesday of each month, providing ongoing support to our community.
Join Us in Making a Difference
We invite you to be part of this vital initiative. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, your support can make a significant impact. Together, we can ensure that no child or senior in Carroll County goes hungry.
For more information on future food distributions, our Carroll County Free Food Resource Guide or our Summer initiative Feeding Carroll Together we invite you to peruse our website or reach out to us at the Mission Food Program.
About Westminster Rescue Mission
The Mission Food Program of Westminster Rescue Mission is a leading food bank in Carroll County. As one of only six redistribution partners for the Maryland Food Bank in the state, we serve 23 local pantries, soup kitchens, non-profits, and agencies. Our objective is to distribute food to the communities where it is needed the most. In 2023, we distributed 1,000,000 pounds of food – the equivalent of more than 800,000 meals, feeding an average of 4,800 families per month.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication to fighting hunger in our community. Together, we are making a difference.
