2022 has been a hard year for many people in the Valley - from high inflation rates impacting prices across the board from higher energy rates, inflated food prices, gasoline and much more.

Inflation has hurt the poor and middle class significantly, with food prices soaring for many households while their paychecks have stayed stagnant.

Since 2007, WFMJ & WBCB has worked annually with the Second Harvest Food Bank to feed those in need, especially during the holiday season.

The annual 'Feed Our Valley' campaign begins  Monday, November 14, and will continue through December 16.

Here is how you can make a difference in the lives of our neighbors and friends right here in the Valley, by donating non-perishable food items at any Sparkle Market.

We are also asking the community to donate money to Second Harvest Food Bank, as all money raised stay right here in the Valley, helping those within our community.

According to Second Harvest, for every $1 cash donated, the food bank distributes $10 worth of food, which amounts to 5 meals.

Here are some fast facts about people from the Valley:

  • 1 in 5 children is at risk of hunger in the Valley
  • 1 in 6 adults is at risk of hunger in the Valley
  • In 2021 Second Harvest provided over 8.8 million meals locally
  • Second Harvest has 163 partner agencies in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties

Some of the most needed items this year include Cereal, Canned Vegetables, Canned Soup, Canned Fruit, Dry Pasta, Macaroni and Cheese, Peanut Butter and Tuna.

In 2007, 21 News became aware of a growing problem in our Valley - hunger.   And instead of just reporting on the problem, we created “Project: Feed Our Valley,” now known as “Feed Our Valley.”

The beneficiary of this 21 News project is Second Harvest Food Bank of the Mahoning Valley, a local organization that fills over 13,000 food requests each week. 

Please help 21 News and WFMJ/WBCB continue to assist the people of the Valley with your continuing generosity.