Between food drives and our local grant cycle, fall is always a busy time for the Foundation.
This fall we approved over 30 grants to nonprofits across Dutchess, Ulster, and Columbia counties. A few of those grantees are: Columbia County Pathways to Recovery, for educational programming on substance use disorder to middle school students; Kingston Emergency Food Collaborative, for their food rescue operation; and Land to Learn, for their holistic food and outdoor exploration programming in a number of local public schools.
No Cost Market donors
On November 8th, the AFF and the Red Hook Community Center co-sponsored another “No Cost Market.” With assistance from the Rotary Club, the Red Hook Faculty Association, food pantry directors, and other volunteers, we hosted over 200 individuals/families. We provided chickens, turkeys, an assortment of root vegetables and greens, along with giveaways of toys and clothes for those in need. Area farmers and merchants were generous in their donations, and chefs Sam Pride and Larry Anthony prepared salads and soup for the participants. We are grateful for everyone's role in the market's success.
Lastly, this fall we welcomed Hudson Bucci as a Foundation Ambassador! Hudson was an AFF Scholarship Award recipient and graduated this year from Purchase College with a degree in Graphic Design. He is our 52nd Ambassador.
Next up: Getting ready for Giving Tuesday!