The Capital Region Food Program (CRFP) is preparing for its 48th annual Holiday Food Basket Project (HFBP). As you may recall, the 2020 HFBP was adapted in response to COVID-19 with the goal of compliance of COVID protocols (social distancing, utilizing PPEs, overall commitment to peoples’ well-being), while still executing the project and servicing those in need.
Throughout the organization’s existence, the Holiday Food Basket Project has brought together the community, created family and friends’ traditions, and has distributed over 3,000 tons of food since its inception. Given decisions need to be made months in advance of the HFBP, along with the anticipation of potential resurgence or breakthrough cases, the CRFP board of trustees approved the implementation of the 2020 HFBP model for our 2021 Holiday Food Basket Project.
The Capital Region Food Program has continuously adhered to and aligned with its values, which include collaboration, cooperation, responsibility, mindfulness, safety, and community consideration. In keeping with these values, the planning for the 2021 Holiday Food Basket Project has taken proactive steps to maximize safety and helping those in need, while minimizing the risk of infection and contagion.
As such, the 2021 Holiday Food Basket Project will be the modified model again this year employing these changes:
- We utilize an online application process again this year to help reduce any risk to our partner agencies and data management coordinators.
- We are unable to accept food drive donations for this year’s project, as we do not have the capacity to properly quarantine and sanitize donated items. We are encouraging folks to check with our partner agencies about accepting food donations.
- Out of an abundance of caution, we are unable to utilize community volunteers for this year’s project in hopes of deterring any potential threats of contagion spread.
Thank you again for your support and efforts on behalf of the Capital Region Food Program.
May you and yours have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.