AAA is kicking off the second year of its giving campaign across local communities in Western and Central New York, and throughout America. This nationwide effort aims to provide at least 5 million meals* to people facing hunger at a time when food insecurity is at its highest level in more than a decade.

“For the second year, this campaign is about more than a meal—it is about bringing comfort, dignity, and hope to people facing difficult circumstances,” said Marke Dickinson, President and CEO at AAA Western and Central New York. “By coming together once again, we are showing our neighbors they are not alone and helping create a future where no one has to wonder where their next meal will come from. All the donations collected at AAA Western and Central New York, from canned goods to cash, will feed our local communities, and I’m grateful for everyone who is supporting us in this effort.”

For its second annual campaign, AAA is partnering with Feeding America®, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization that supports tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs. With its broad reach—including thousands of dedicated Associates and millions of valued Members—AAA aims to raise awareness, inspire donations and volunteerism, and engage local communities in building a hunger-free America. Local food banks, including FeedMore WNY, Foodlink in Rochester, and the Food Bank of CNY, are all part of Feeding America, so campaign support will directly benefit local communities. The public is encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations or monetary contributions to any AAA Western and Central New York branch through August 31, 2026.

“We can end hunger when we work together,” said Elizabeth Pettengill, interim vice president, corporate and foundation partnerships at Feeding America. “Through the Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger campaign, together we will help provide meals to help ensure more neighbors have access to the food and resources they need to thrive.”

• Food insecurity is present in every community in the U.S. and is not caused by a shortage of food, but by barriers that keep people from accessing enough food to live well.
• Anyone can experience food insecurity regardless of background, race or ZIP code. It can be the result of a short-term setback, such as a layoff, or long-term circumstances like managing a chronic health condition. Yet in 2024, 47 million people—1 in 7 people—experienced food insecurity in the U.S.

AAA selected June 8–12 to focus on donations and volunteer efforts, as this is when many children are finishing school and often experience food insecurity. During this “Week of Impact,” AAA teams will be volunteering at local food banks across the region.

Join AAA in the Fuel Hope, Fight Hunger campaign. Together, we can help end hunger and support neighbors by helping put meals on their tables. Visit any AAA WCNY location to donate! Every donation counts!

If you are in need of food assistance or know someone who is, find your local food bank: https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank to get connected for resources.

*$1 helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America® on behalf of local partner food banks.

About AAA

Founded in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts advocating for better roads and safer mobility, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations. Guided by our mission to Save Lives, Create Member Value, and Deliver Exceptional Experiences, AAA provides world-class roadside assistance, travel planning, exclusive discounts, and reliable financial and insurance services. Today, AAA enhances the life journey of more than 66 million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. Learn more or become a member at AAA.com.  

About Feeding America®

Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America® unites the country ensuring everyone has access to food and a thriving future. We support tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide a network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs, Powered by leaders and volunteers embedded in local communities, we are one of the nation’s most effective food distribution systems driving immediate impact today—and a catalyst for long-term change through advocating for legislation that improves food security and work to address its factors. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters united with the unwavering commitment to provide nourishing food and work to end hunger at its roots so everyone can live fuller, healthier lives. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.