VIENNA, Va. –Navy Federal Credit Union said it is partnering with the Chicago-based hunger-relief organization Feeding America to launch No Plate Left Behind as part of an effort to raise awareness about military food insecurity and help servicemembers, veterans, and their families put food on their tables.
According to the organizations, more than one-million veterans and their families experience food insecurity, part of the more than 34 million people, including nine-million children, who experience food insecurity in the United States.
Navy Federal said it is working to end food insecurity by collecting donations in a “digital-first way” for military members, veterans, and their families experiencing hunger.
Through Oct. 31, Navy Federal members interested in participating can get involved by filling up a virtual mess hall plate of food and making a donation to Feeding America. Donations are also accepted online at www.noplateleftbehind.com.
Leaning Into Commitment
“As a military-focused organization, we care deeply about the causes that mean the most to our active-duty servicemembers, veterans and their families,” said Navy Federal President & CEO Mary McDuffie in a statement. “Our team members also lean into that commitment, dedicating countless hours each year to support local communities where we serve. By raising awareness about food insecurity and supporting efforts to remove barriers to accessing food, we can help find a solution for this nationwide challenge.”
In observance of Hunger Action Month in September, Navy Federal said it is also providing hands-on volunteer opportunities for all employees, such as hosting in-person and virtual education events to explore hunger challenges facing different communities, as well as encouraging participation in food drives and distribution of meals to increase the impact in local communities across the nation.
More Than Five-Billion Meals
Through a network of more than 200 food banks, 21 statewide food bank associations and over 60,000 partner agencies, food pantries and meal programs, Feeding America reported it has helped distribute 5.3 billion meals to tens of millions of people in need over the last year.
This year, Navy Federal said its employees have used nearly 23,000 hours of volunteer leave to improve the communities where they live and serve.