Mount Saint Mary College joined two dozen other distribution sites on Saturday, November 22 for the largest single-day Thanksgiving food drive in New York State history.
Partnering with the Regional Food Bank of the Hudson Valley, the college transformed part of its campus into a bustling distribution center. Despite the November chill and rainy weather, approximately three dozen volunteers – including students, alumni, faculty, staff, and local community leaders – teamed up to distribute roughly 700 frozen turkeys and more than 700 supplemental food packages to local families.
Michael L. Fox, who was aiding the efforts at the Mount on Saturday, serves as Acting Dean and Chairperson of the college’s School of Business. He’s also the Vice President of the Food Bank’s Board of Directors.
“It’s an important start to the next month of holidays, making the days a little brighter for many,” said Michel L. Fox. He described the effort as “central and vital to the Mount’s mission and service to the community.”
The event drew support from high-profile community leaders, with volunteers joined on the line by U.S. Congressman Pat Ryan, NYS Assemblymember Jonathan Jacobson, and NYS Assemblymember Chris Eachus, all rolling up their sleeves to assist in the effort.
Beyond the frozen turkeys, the USDA-provided bags included a small frozen ham, fresh produce like apples and grapes, pantry staples such as beans and bread rolls, and holiday essentials like canned pumpkin and a pie.
This local effort in Newburgh was part of a record-breaking day for the Regional Food Bank. Across 25 different sites, the organization distributed more than 350,000 meals to 75,000 people, marking the largest Thanksgiving distribution event the state has ever seen.