Getting it done — CSEA members from Niagara County along with management officials donated over 21 bins of food to area pantries on Dec. 20. Pictured here left to right: Ralph Yenson, Suzanne Needler, John Manzare, Brian Roggow and Sue Young. Photo provided.
Lockport— For the third year in a row, CSEA members from Niagara County are joining forces with government leaders this holiday season to execute a food drive to assist struggling families.
Just recently, festively decorated containers and bins were placed in employee work areas throughout all Niagara County office buildings. CSEA leadership encouraged county employees to donate nonperishable food items and canned goods to be delivered to area food banks and pantries in Niagara County just before the holiday.
According to the USDA, in 2016 41.2 million people lived in food-insecure households while 10.8 million adults lived in households with very low food security. These statistics include the grim reminder that 6.5 million children lived in food-insecure households in which children, along with adults, were food insecure.
CSEA represented employees who work for the Department of Social Services say the concept of starting a December food drive was initiated from community members sharing their stories of food insecurity with county workers.
Principal Social Service Worker Suzanne Needler said, “CSEA workers deliver many valuable services to county residents. We know firsthand what is happening on the streets and in our homes. There is a real uptick in food insecurity. We wanted to do something about it.”
CSEA Western Region President Bob Pyjas praised the effort.
“It’s wonderful to see our members partnering with management and elected officials focusing on matters of real importance,” said Pyjas. “I applaud our CSEA members for their genuine concern for those who may be struggling to make ends meet.”
Needler said food insecurity has always been an issue in Niagara County. She added, “We hope this effort can make this holiday season a bit easier for those who need the assistance.”
-Ove Overmyer
