Local foundation supports 2 Million Meal Challenge
The Behring Global Educational Foundation (Behring Foundation), a global organization with local roots, is fighting hunger in the Bay Area by providing the biggest donation match to date – half a million dollars – in the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano’s 47-year history.
The $500,000 match – named the “2 Million Meal Challenge” – comes at a crucial time, as the cost of living increases and the effects of the pandemic linger for many, especially the most vulnerable members of our community. Since last year, food prices have risen 5.2%, with the cost of meat and healthy proteins up by nearly 10%, according to the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers. When paired with rising gas and utility prices, putting food on the table is becoming nearly impossible for many.
Through May 31, every donation will be matched dollar for dollar up to $500,000 and every dollar provides at least two meals. If the match is met, the 1 million in funds will provide 2 million nutritious meals, including fruits, vegetables, meat and protein-rich items, for neighbors in need. That’s enough to purchase three days’ worth of food for each of the 250,000 people served by the Food Bank every month.
Don Williams, Behring Global Educational Foundation board member, comments: “The Food Bank’s work is especially important during these challenging times when so many have lost jobs, wages, and even family members. By making a sizable contribution, we hope this will motivate others to join us and make a serious dent in hunger in our community. The Foundation knows that to end hunger worldwide, we must start right here at home. We hope this opportunity will unite our community behind this shared mission.”
Based in Danville, the Behring Foundation was developed upon the success of the Wheelchair Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Kenneth E. Behring in 2000, which is now a subdivision of the Behring Global Educational Foundation. This marks the foundation’s largest contribution and first matching challenge to the Food Bank.
Joel Sjostrom, Food Bank president and CEO, says: “This gift is breathtaking in both its generosity and its ability to make a significant difference in the levels of food insecurity in the areas we serve. The Behring Foundation has made an incredible impact on the global stage, and we are proud to partner with them as we fight hunger right here in their local community.”
By Joel Sjostrom, Food Bank president and CEO