The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board (VFTCB) announced the 7^th Annual Valley Forge Freedom from Hunger Food Drive – held in September and October to build awareness around hunger in Montgomery County, PA – has surpassed its 25,000-pound goal by collecting $6,902, the equivalent of a record more than 30,000 pounds!

This year, more than 60 individuals or businesses donated to the fundraiser, which was held exclusively online.

The organization will keep the donation link open through the holidays to continue to help those in need.

To date, the VFTCB’s Freedom from Hunger Drive has raised enough for more than 75,000 pounds of food to feed the hungry in Montco.

“We can’t thank the community enough,” said Mike Bowman, President & CEO of the VFTCB. “Every year, we challenge folks to help us fight hunger together, and the Montgomery County community hasn’t let us down yet. Thank you for helping us take care of our friends, neighbors, families, and children. Every little bit truly helps. We’re going to keep the donation link open through the holidays to help as many people as possible since the need has been so much greater over the last year or so.”

The VFTCB also partnered with the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network (MAHN), a coalition of hunger relief organizations working to keep families stable with food assistance. MAHN provides resources to food pantries that feed those who are food insecure in Montco.

“We are beyond grateful that so many businesses stepped up because they understand that we’re all stronger when we’re all fed,” said Paula Schafer, Executive Director of MAHN. “We needed help, and Montco answered that call. We were already able to make a bulk fish order of tilapia, which is a big deal to be able to offer fresh protein. So many people are still in need, and struggling to bounce back from the pandemic, and storms. This is important to support folks in the future, too.”