You helped provide a golden opportunity for 11 new graduates from the Food Bank’s Community Advocates Training Program to put their skills to the test over the summer. First, five members made live presentations during a graduation ceremony and spoke of the hardships, perseverance, and inspiration that led them to participate in the program. Another graduate recorded her speech for the large audience to watch. They had an opportunity to connect with Congressman Marc Molinaro, who also spoke at the event, sharing his own story of growing up with food insecurity. The Food Bank’s Community Empowe ..read more

With your help, the popular School Food Centers being used in 18 communities across our six-county region have grown from the roots of the BackPack Program, which provides food to students to take home over the weekend. These centers have taken the best parts of the BackPack Program and adapted them to fit what is most needed now. One School Food Center can be found at Enfield Elementary School. Partnering with the local pantry to support students and their families, it is set up just like a pantry, but located within the school. A long-time BackPack Program partner, Enfield saw its priorities ..read more

Mark Bordeau recently joined the Food Bank as President and CEO, bringing more than two decades of experience in the hunger relief and nonprofit sectors, as well as nine years as a Food Bank board member. Mark shares his thoughts on the new position, how his experience prepares him for the role, and how he sees the Food Bank supporting partners in this period of record high food requests. What inspired you to take this role? For me, it was many things. I have believed in the mission and vision of the Food Bank since I first started with the BackPack Program in 2006. I saw firsthand how great t ..read more

Let’s Talk About Turkeys…. The Food Bank has put together Thanksgiving Food Safety and Recipes Packet to help ensure your family has a food-safe Thanksgiving! Check it out! The post Thanksgiving Food Safety and Recipes first appeared on Food Bank of the Southern Tier ..read more

ELMIRA, NY – The Food Bank of the Southern Tier is excited to announce the launch of its annual Check-Out Hunger event, in partnership with Wegmans, now through November 29th. Check Out Hunger allows shoppers at one of five Wegmans stores throughout the Southern Tier (Corning, Elmira, Hornell, Ithaca, Johnson City) to donate right at the register when making their purchases. Throughout the campaign, Wegmans shoppers can donate $2, $3, or $5 to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier right at the register upon checkout. It really is that simple to help provide meals for our neighbors in need. With t ..read more

As the leaves change colors and the air becomes crisper, it can mean only one thing – Halloween is right around the corner. It’s the season of costumes, pumpkins, and, of course, sweet treats. But you don’t have to sacrifice your healthy eating habits for the sake of spooky delights. Enter Halloween Banana Popsicles, a delicious and nutritious way to celebrate this ghoulish holiday. In this article, we’ll explore the fun and healthy world of Halloween Banana Popsicles and provide you with a step-by-step recipe for making your own. The Halloween Banana Popsicle Craze Halloween Banana Popsicles ..read more

Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to conjure up some spine-tingling delights for your spooky soirée. If you’re looking for a devilishly good appetizer that will send shivers down your guests’ spines, then look no further than Spooky Spider Deviled Eggs. These creepy, crawly delights are not only easy to make but also devilishly delicious. With their eerie spider-like appearance, they’ll be the star of your Halloween spread. Ingredients: To create your Spooky Spider Deviled Eggs, you will need: 6 hard-boiled eggs, halved 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teas ..read more

  Blueberry bread is a delightful and versatile baked good that can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. Bursting with the natural sweetness and vibrant color of fresh blueberries, this moist and flavorful bread is a favorite among both kids and adults alike. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of blueberry bread, including its history, nutritional benefits, and a delectable blueberry bread recipe from jsyfruitveggies.org. A Bit of Blueberry Bread History Blueberries have been enjoyed for centuries by indigenous communities in North America, who recognized th ..read more

When we think of pumpkins, the first image that comes to mind is often a grinning jack-o’-lantern adorning our doorstep during Halloween. However, these vibrant orange gourds have a lot more to offer than just their decorative appeal. From tantalizing culinary creations to impressive health benefits, pumpkins are a versatile and nutrient-rich ingredient that deserves a place in our kitchens year-round. The Culinary Delights of Pumpkins Soups and Stews: Pumpkin soup is a classic autumn comfort dish that warms both the body and the soul. Blended with aromatic spices, herbs, and a touch of cream ..read more

Sodium nitrate, a chemical compound with the formula NaNO3, is a common food additive used in various processed foods for its preservative and flavor-enhancing properties. While it serves essential functions in food preservation, there are concerns about its potential health risks when consumed in excessive amounts. In this article, we will explore what sodium nitrate is used for in the food industry, the associated risks, and alternative food choices to reduce its consumption. Uses of Sodium Nitrate in Food Preservative: Sodium nitrate is primarily used as a preservative in processed meats s ..read more