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FOOD Insecurity

United Way Northern NY

United Way recognizes that food insecurity is a pervasive problem, jeopardizing the health and well-being of North Country residents, young and old.  We are committed to ensuring that nutritious food is accessible to all North Country residents, supporting food programming at every opportunity.  No one should have to choose between buying groceries or paying rent.

Program Objectives
  • Food Policy Council: We worked with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County to launch the first ever Food Policy Council in Jefferson County. Click here to learn more about this exciting initiative that combats food insecurity by promoting comprehensive resources to local food access, farm, and nutrition.

  • Annual Food Drive: Each year in June, we work with local individuals and businesses to conduct a community wide food drive.  Non-perishable food items are collected for distribution across local pantries. Click here to learn how you can help with the upcoming Food Drive on June 5, 2024

  • Meals with a Mission: A new endeavor in partnership with Jefferson-Lewis BOCES, engaging students in the preparation and packaging of frozen meals distributed to BOCES families in need.

  • Watertown City School District Food 4 Families Backpack Program: United Way is the fiscal sponsor for the school district’s backpack program, serving as the conduit for community donations and grant funding through the Community Development Block Grant.

Food Policy

For more information on how you can help fight hunger, call us at (315) 788-5631 or click here to donate now.