Dozens Participate in Convoy of Caring

Dozens of trucks hit the road on Tuesday morning for an annual campaign to feed the hungry in the Greater Hartford area.

Several companies in the food industry took part in the 21-mile drive from Rocky Hill to Foodshare's distribution center in Bloomfield in an effort to demonstrate their commitment to fighting hunger in Greater Hartford.

“We, of course, get wonderful contributions from the entire Greater Hartford community and foundations and individuals. That helps with our long-term work we do fighting hunger. But these organizations that bring us food help us feed people every single day,” James Arena-DeRosa, president of Foodshare, said.

This is the 13th anniversary of the convoy, which serves as a visual reminder to all of the challenges 137,000 residents who go hungry struggle with every day.

Adirondack Beverages, Bakery On Main, Big Y, Bozzuto's, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Burris Logistics, C&S Wholesale, Coca Cola, CT Food Association, Domino's Pizza, The Farmer's Cow, Freshpoint, Frito Lay, Garelick Farms, Geissler's, Guida Dairy, HPC Foodservice, Howley Bread Group (Panera), New England Dairy Council, Ocean State Job Lot, Pepsi Beverages Co., Polar Beverages, Price Rite, Sam's Club, ShopRite, Stop & Shop, Thurston Foods, Sysco, Walmart and Whole Foods are all participating in the convoy.

“Oh it’s incredible. It just shows the community support and how many organizations support Foodshare. It warms your heart,” Philip Tracey, spokesperson of Stop & Shop, said.

Before the convoy set out, nearly 200 truck drivers and business executives were treated to breakfast at the Sheraton.

“It’s all about taking care of the community, doing what you can. Food is near and dear to my heart so this is easy for me,” Jim Oswald, executive chef of the Sheraton, said.

Since 2000, food industry companies have donated the equivalent of more than 108 million meals.

Officials from Foodshare said 73 percent of the food it distributes comes directly from the companies’ in-kind donations, so every dollar donated results in three meals.

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