Food Bank partners with Whole Foods to combat hunger

The Food Bank for Westchester has partnered with organic grocer Whole Foods Market for a one-day sales fundraiser to help combat local hunger.

Five percent of net sales on Jan. 13 at Whole Foods Market’s three Westchester locations will go to the Food Bank, which will help provide food to hungry families in the county.

Food Bank for Westchester President and CEO Ellen Lynch encouraged residents to shop at Whole Foods stores next Wednesday to support local hunger-fighting initiatives. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods operates stores in Yonkers, Port Chester and White Plains.

“We are grateful that Whole Foods Market has partnered with us for this wonderful initiative,” Lynch said. “Every penny counts.”

According to Elmsford-based Food Bank for Westchester, 200,000 Westchester residents are  hungry or food-insecure, more than 33 percent of whom are children. The nonprofit provides 95 percent of all emergency food distributed in the county to more than 265 local hunger relief programs.

“We’re proud to offer support for organizations whose goals most closely reflect our mission and core values,” said Elisa Mondragon, marketing team leader for Whole Foods’ Yonkers location. “We’re excited to partner up and provide financial support for The Food Bank for Westchester.”