In recognition of Hunger Action Month, key organizations representing Virginia dairy farm families—The Dairy Alliance, Virginia State Dairymen’s Association (VSDA), and Maola Local Dairies—are joining forces with the Federation of Virginia Food Banks to address food insecurity through the Milk For Good program. From September 27 to October 6, 2024, at the Virginia State Fair, this initiative will raise funds and improve access to fresh, nutritious dairy products for families in need across the Commonwealth.
Established in 2019 with backing from The Dairy Alliance, VSDA, and Maola Local Dairies, the Milk For Good program provides fresh, locally sourced milk to families supported by seven food banks across Virginia. Fair attendees can participate by purchasing local dairy milk outside the Meadow Event Pavilion, with proceeds benefiting Virginia food pantries and the State Fair of Virginia Dairy Scholarship program, which assists students pursuing careers in the dairy industry.
“Over 700,000 Virginians are struggling with rising living costs and are relying on our network of 1,100 pantry partners for help,” said Eddie Oliver, Executive Director of the Federation of Virginia Food Banks. “We’re thrilled that, thanks to Milk For Good, many of them can now take home fresh, local milk with the help of our generous partners.”
“Milk For Good demonstrates the generosity and strength of Virginia’s agricultural community, and we are proud to support these efforts,” said Geri Berdak, CEO of The Dairy Alliance. “Dairy is crucial for nourishing children, mothers, and families, and we hope to raise awareness about this vital need statewide.”
Every milk purchase at the fair makes a difference, with Maola matching up to $10,000 in donations to provide milk for families facing food insecurity.
A $12 donation typically provides five half-gallons (or 40 servings) of milk. Ongoing support from the cooperative ensures Virginia food banks have the necessary resources, such as refrigerated coolers, to store and distribute milk.
“Supporting families in need is a top priority for us,” said Eric Paulson, Executive Director of VSDA. “Milk For Good has played a critical role in combating food insecurity in Virginia, and we are excited to continue raising awareness through the fair.”
“As a cooperative, our mission is to connect our farm families to their communities by offering high-quality dairy products,” said Jay Bryant, CEO of Maola Local Dairies. “Many families struggle to afford nutritious milk, and we are committed to addressing this challenge.”
