PenAir Partners with Manna and First Responders to Fight Hunger
Pensacola, FLA. (July 7, 2021) – On Tuesday, June 29, Manna Food Pantries announced the results of the 4th Annual Donut Strike to “arrest hunger” in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties. This year’s strike collected 20,233 lbs. of food and $21,582.05, the equivalent of 34,074 healthy meals over the course of the three-day campaign.
The Donut Strike originated as a joint effort of the Pensacola Police Department, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Pensacola Fire Department, Escambia County Fire Rescue, local businesses, and the community to turn hunger into hope. With a front row view of hunger and the impact it has, first responders vowed to put the donuts down and do something to help, and the community stood behind their efforts.
“Childhood hunger has worsened; one in three children in our community will go to bed hungry tonight,” said DeDe Flounlacker, Executive Director of Manna. “We so appreciate the support of our local first responders during these critical summer months, when children are out of school and the need for help increases.”
In the spirit of Communerosity, PenAir Federal Credit Union joined the fight again to turn hunger into hope by donating $10,000 towards the 30,000 healthy meal goal.
“PenAir is committed to the communities we serve, “says Delbert Lee Morgan, the credit union’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. “Right now, our community is hungry. The negative effects of canceled food drives due to COVID, coupled with the alarming rise in childhood hunger, made this initiative mission critical. Thanks to the awareness and dedication of our first responders and fellow community partners, we know we’ve taken an important step toward feeding our neighbors.”
To learn more about Manna, the Donut Strike or to make a donation, visit the Manna Facebook page or www.mannahelps.org.
About Manna
Manna’s mission is to offer emergency food assistance, service the food-related needs of vulnerable populations, and engage the entire community in the fight against hunger. A local grassroots organization with no national affiliation or government funding, Manna provided food to 35,417 people last year. Manna operates a network of three emergency food distribution pantries and 12 specialty programs with 14 community partners in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Visit www.mannahelps.org for more information.
About PenAir Federal Credit Union
At PenAir Federal Credit Union, respect is a guiding principle. As the largest and oldest credit union headquartered in Pensacola, Florida, with $2.3 billion in assets PenAir is dedicated to enhancing lives through exceptional service, strength, and financial solutions. With thirteen locations in Northwest Florida and Southeast Alabama combined with online and mobile banking, we provide worldwide reach. PenAir is a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution, serving the community and enhancing lives since 1936. For more information, visit penair.org.