WSFS Bank, the main subsidiary of WSFS Financial Corporation (Nasdaq: WSFS), has officially announced the commencement of its annual Food Drive aimed at addressing food insecurity in the Greater Philadelphia and Delaware regions. From now until December 31, 2024, WSFS banking offices across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania will serve as drop-off centers for nonperishable food donations from WSFS associates, customers, and community members.
The Food Drive kicked off at the WSFS Bank Center in Wilmington, Delaware, in collaboration with the Sunday Breakfast Mission, and at WSFS Bank Place in Philadelphia with Sharing Excess. These events encouraged associates to contribute nonperishable items to help launch the initiative. Additionally, grocery bags will be distributed in various Delaware publications this fall, allowing consumers to fill them with donations for their nearest WSFS banking office.
According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap 2024 report, 13.5% of individuals—over 44 million people—were living in food-insecure households in 2022, marking a significant increase from 10.4% in 2021. The report also highlights that nearly half of those facing hunger do not qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the largest food assistance program in the U.S.
“Many households are struggling to afford basic necessities due to rising living costs,” stated Vernita L. Dorsey, Senior Vice President and Director of Community Strategy at WSFS Bank. “By collaborating with Sharing Excess and the Sunday Breakfast Mission, we hope to make a meaningful impact. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a significant difference. We encourage those who can to contribute nonperishable items at our banking offices to help meet these urgent needs.”
Evan Ehlers, Founder and CEO of Sharing Excess, expressed excitement about the partnership with WSFS for this year’s holiday Food Drive. “The holiday season is a time for community engagement, and WSFS customers have a unique opportunity to directly combat food insecurity by donating at their local banking office. We greatly appreciate WSFS’s commitment to supporting communities and fostering lasting change through its partnership with Sharing Excess.”
Rev. Tom Laymon, Senior Pastor/CEO/President at Sunday Breakfast Mission, noted, “For the 22nd year, WSFS Bank has joined forces with the Sunday Breakfast Mission for our Food Drive, which has provided over 1.3 million meals to families in need over the years. Currently, we are witnessing a record number of individuals seeking assistance. We urgently need food donations to ensure that hungry families can enjoy a fulfilling Thanksgiving season. We are grateful to WSFS Bank for its continued sponsorship.”
In addition to the annual Food Drive, WSFS will once again sponsor Preston & Steve’s Camp Out for Hunger for the seventh consecutive year to support Philabundance in its mission to alleviate hunger in our communities. This event will take place from December 2-6 at Xfinity Live! in Philadelphia.
In 2023, WSFS contributed over 82,000 pounds of food through its annual Food Drive and Camp Out for Hunger. Customers and residents are encouraged to drop off their nonperishable food donations at WSFS banking offices through December 31, 2024. For those looking to find their nearest WSFS Bank location, further details can be obtained from the bank’s website.
