Community Corner

Chester County Food Bank Named 2012 Business of the Year

The Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce has named the Chester County Food Bank the 2012 Business of the Year.

Press release used courtesy of the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.

Given Chester County’s standing as one of the most affluent counties in the state, it’s often hard to believe hunger exists within its boundaries. The reality is, however, that some 70,000 residents struggle daily to have enough food to eat.
The Chester County Food Bank was established in 2009 to help provide food for those in need in Chester County and to focus on hunger’s role in poverty, health and education.

Since its inception, the Food Bank has distributed over 1,200,000 pounds of food each year. The food is donated to over 65 organizations including food cupboards, meal sites and other non-profits that help feed the hungry and/or distribute the food items.

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In recognition of this outstanding work, the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce is proud to honor the Chester County Food Bank as its 2011 Mosteller Community Service Award winner. The award will be presented Feb. 7, 2012 at the Mendenhall Inn.

“We are honoring the Chester County Food Bank for its tireless, ongoing effort to feed the over 40,000 local households that don’t have enough food in Chester County,” said Katie L. Doherty, president of the Chamber. “Distributing food to so many people on a day-to-day basis is no small job. But in a short time the Food Bank has risen to the task. We salute the Board, staff and all the volunteers who make it happen.”

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According to Larry Welsch, the Food Bank’s executive director, the need in the county continues to rise. The organization has been able to keep up with the demand thanks to donations of time, food and money. With only six employees, the non-profit relies heavily on volunteers including approximately 1,200 volunteers who help with the Summer Harvest Program and over 800 volunteers who work in its warehouse.

Welsch expressed his sincere appreciation to the Chamber for the award and applauded those who work behind the scenes to further the Food Bank’s mission.
“It is wonderful to be recognized with this award, knowing how hard our Board of Directors, volunteers and staff have worked to help the hungry in Chester County,” said Welsch. “The Food Bank has accomplished a great deal in a short period of time because of the commitment and generosity of many. We are very honored to be recognized.”


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