Recent reductions in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and colder temperatures mean that more people will be turning to Philabundance and the agencies it serves to help feed their families this winter. Thanks to the generosity of SEPTA customers and employees, who contributed more than 25 tons of food – a record – during the authority’s fifth annual “Stop Hunger at Your Station” food drive, Philabundance’s shelves are well-stocked and ready to serve those in need.

The food donated by SEPTA customers and employees will provide more than 50,000 meals for families in need across the Greater Philadelphia region. “We are fortunate to have so many caring people who ride SEPTA and work for the Authority,” said SEPTA General Manager Joseph Casey. “Every year our customers and employees set a new record in donations for the food drive. It is amazing that, in just two weeks, we collected 25 tons of food. The donations will make a significant difference for our neighbors struggling to feed their families.”

During the food drive, held October 7-21, SEPTA collected donations of canned and boxed goods more than 40 designated stations throughout the transit system. A specially wrapped “Stop Hunger at Your Station” SEPTA bus toured the region throughout the food drive, collecting items such as peanut butter, jelly, canned pasta and tuna. Monetary donations of almost $13,900 received during the food drive also counted towards SEPTA’s overall collection total.

In 2012, SEPTA collected a then-record 19 tons of food. Since 2009, SEPTA customers and employees have donated approximately 90 tons of food to Philabundance.

Philabundance is the Greater Philadelphia region’s largest hunger-relief organization. In 2012, Philabundance distributed 25 million pounds of food across the Delaware Valley.

If you know someone in need of food assistance, tell them to call (800) 319-FOOD (3663). For any other questions about Philabundance, visit http://www.philabundance.org.