Write a commentThrough federally-funded programs such as Farmers to Families as well as donations, American Dairy Association North East has assisted in distributing over 900,000 lbs. of food and 900,000 gallons of milk to schools and businesses across New York State.
Oswego Industries, a Fulton-based nonprofit agency that supports children and adults with developmental disabilities, is working with program staff to provide food boxes to interested staff and people supported by the agency throughout the month of March.
“It’s important to us that we look out for our community, and that starts with our staff and the people we support every day,” said Rebekkah Frisch, Marketing & Communications Associate at Oswego Industries. “We are so grateful to New York State farmers and the American Dairy Association for helping us accomplish that goal.”
The food boxes, which contain many grocery essentials like milk and potatoes, were created as a response to the drop in food orders from restaurants and cafeterias due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Giving the food away allows farms to avoid waste and helps prevent families on tight budgets from going hungry.
“We have the ability and the desire to help the community,” said Cathy Hobb, Director of Retail Sales at American Dairy Association North East. “Both farmers and community members love this program. When we work together, everyone wins.”
For over 50 years, Oswego Industries has provided services and supports for adults with disabilities while partnering with local businesses to deliver production and workforce solutions. Its mission is to be a partner in the development of comprehensive community services designed to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities, by providing the necessary support programs to enable individuals to grow with dignity and achieve their highest level of independence and self-fulfillment. Person-centered services include pre-vocational and vocational training, family support services, supported employment, and day habilitation programs. Its sister agency, The Arc of Oswego County, provides services to seniors with disabilities: together, they create a comprehensive support system for Oswego County residents with disabilities. Find more information online at www.oswegoindustriesinc.org.
