AAA Western and Central New York is accepting donations to help fight hunger as part of a nationwide effort to provide at least 5 million meals* to help those in need. The public can drop off non-perishable food donations or make monetary contributions at any AAA WCNY branch until August 31, 2026.

All donations will support local food banks at a time when food insecurity is at its highest level in more than a decade. As part of the second annual campaign, AAA is partnering with Feeding America®, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization, which includes area food banks such as FeedMore WNY, Foodlink in Rochester, the Food Bank of CNY, and Watertown Urban Mission.

“Last year we exceeded our goals, and this year we are aiming to collect 2,500 pounds of food and raise $2,500,” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations at AAA WCNY. “AAA associates have come together to support the effort, and we’re hoping more AAA members and the general public will do the same.”

During Volunteer Week in June, AAA WCNY had 27 volunteers contribute 10 hours of service at the four aforementioned local food banks. Their efforts helped generate more than 11,000 meals and 700 food boxes for families in need.

In addition, 14 AAA volunteers participated in a food drive with Buffalo Bills player Dion Dawkins and FeedMore WNY, collecting 1,381 pounds of food—equivalent to more than 1,150 meals.

“I’m so proud of the efforts that are taking place to support those in need. This goes beyond providing meals by bringing comfort, dignity, and hope to people facing difficult circumstances,” said AAA Western and Central New York President and CEO Marke Dickinson. “Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our communities.”

• 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. An estimated 47 million people (1 in 7) experience food insecurity in the U.S.

Feeding America® 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.

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.