FeedMore WNY Foundation to hold virtual event in order to raise funds, awareness for critical feeding programs

Posted: May 11, 2021

In order to help meet the increased need for food assistance in the community, the FeedMore WNY Foundation will hold a virtual version of its signature fundraiser, “Sweet Expectations at Home,” from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 19, 2021. Co-presented by James Desiderio Inc. and Wegmans Food Markets, Inc., “Sweet Expectations at Home” will feature culinary demonstrations from renowned chefs Darian Bryan and Camille Le Caër, charcuterie artistry from Board in Buffalo founder Miranda Rozek, an exciting online auction, live raffles and more. Event tickets range from $25 to $250; attendees will be entered into exclusive raffles and will receive additional gift items depending on the level of ticket they purchase. Tickets and more information can be found online at www.feedmorewny.org/sweet-expectations.

Tickets will remain on sale until the start of the event on May 19. The online auction will open at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 17, and will close at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 19. Proceeds from “Sweet Expectations at Home” will help FeedMore WNY continue to respond to the high need for food assistance in the community as a result of the pandemic. In 2020, FeedMore WNY provided nutritious food and support to 180,880 individuals throughout Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara counties – a 36 percent increase compared to 2019. Hunger leaders and economists across the nation anticipate the increased levels of food insecurity to remain for the next two to five years as community members struggle to recover from the financial hardships brought on by COVID-19.

“While all of us are eager to place COVID-19 in the rearview mirror, the unfortunate reality is that so many of our community members will remain in need of food assistance for years to come. COVID was the catalyst that caused numerous individuals to seek assistance through one of FeedMore WNY’s programs for the first time in their lives. And for those who were already struggling to put meals on the table, the pandemic only exacerbated their pain and hardship,” Tara A. Ellis, president and CEO of FeedMore WNY, said. “Thanks to the generosity of the community, FeedMore WNY was able to distribute enough food to provide nearly 16 million meals to our neighbors in need in 2020. However, we still need continued support to respond to this once-in-a-generation crisis. We encourage everyone to purchase a ticket to attend ‘Sweet Expectations at Home’ on May 19. Not only will it provide an evening of entertainment, but it will be a wonderful opportunity to help feed hungry babies, children, families, veterans and older adults throughout Western New York.”