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It’s been a few years since credit unions came together in-person to collectively celebrate the milestones we’ve achieved through our shared Campaign for Ending Hunger. While I know many—including myself—are looking forward to next week’s event at the Harraseeket Inn, I am eager for a time when our annual gathering becomes a thing of the past because all Mainers will have access to the healthy food they need.
I don’t want to give anything away, but our fundraising total for 2022 will not disappoint. As we take pride in our accomplishments, we must keep in mind that a great deal of work remains ahead. The state has set a goal to end hunger by 2030. That’s only eight years away. For some, this may sound like a sufficient length of time, but when you consider how broadly hunger impacts those living and working in our state, eight years will pass by us in a flash.
The objective is achievable, but COVID and rising inflation have certainly made solving this problem even more challenging. Fortunately, credit unions have been passionate advocates in the fight to end hunger in our state since 1990, and our efforts see no sign of slowing down. While there are many worthy causes and initiatives to support, it is especially meaningful that our network remains united in this fight. With our People Helping People spirit driving our actions, I’m confident we can keep the momentum going and inspire others to join us. We’ll need the help!
Solving hunger in Maine can’t be accomplished in a vacuum. It will take the continued work of many hands—credit unions, as well as public and private partnerships—to mitigate a solution that not only gets food into the homes of those who need it, but lifts people out of poverty in communities across the state. Fortunately, our industry is well-equipped to have a key role in this effort. We’ve become very efficient at raising dollars, but even more important—credit unions are leaders in providing affordable, accessible financial services while also offering tools to help people make smart financial decisions. This contribution is imperative in ending the cycle of poverty that contributes to food insecurity.
If you are unable to join us in Freeport on February 15, I encourage you to read next week’s edition of Weekly Update to learn about our fundraising results. Help us amplify these results by sharing the news with your members and communities. I promise, it will be an update we all will be proud to communicate.
Additionally, all credit unions will receive a letter summarizing their institution’s unique contributions to the 2022 Campaign. I challenge you to build upon your success and aim to do even more in the weeks and months ahead. Big, bold goals and continued advocacy will help chart the course for a successful year and get us all one step closer to eliminating hunger by 2030.