Neighbors Foundation urges community support amidst unprecedented need

Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island Press Release, Logo & Photos

Submitted by David Conboy

President, Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island

As the holiday season approaches, the Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island is preparing for its annual holiday food distribution – an effort that brightens the holidays for over 200 local individuals and families each year. Through the generosity of Grand Island residents, the Neighbors Foundation provides nonperishable food and gift cards to those facing hardship during this special time of year.

This year, the need is greater than ever. To meet that challenge, the Neighbors Foundation is launching its annual “Share Your Happiness” campaign, running from Nov. 15 through the end of December. Traditionally, this campaign raises about $12,000, but given rising costs and increasing requests for assistance, the Neighbors Foundation has set an ambitious goal of $20,000 for 2025.

To help inspire giving, the Neighbors Foundation will share progress toward this goal with a fundraising thermometer that will be updated and shared throughout the community and on social media during the campaign.

While this drive focuses on helping families during the holiday season, the Neighbors Foundation provides assistance year-round to Grand Island residents facing hardship. Donations from the community not only support the upcoming holiday distribution, but also sustain the Neighbors Foundation’s ongoing mission into 2026 – ensuring help is available whenever a neighbor is in need.

“Our neighbors are struggling with higher food prices and other challenges that make daily living difficult,” said Diane Garey, Neighbors Foundation board member and donation committee chair. “Grand Islanders have always looked out for one another, and we’re confident that together we can meet this need and ensure every family enjoys a brighter holiday season.”

Financial donations can be made through the Neighbors Foundation’s website at www.GINeighbors.org; or mailed to P.O. Box 155, Grand Island, NY 14072. Every contribution, large or small, will make a meaningful impact on this year’s efforts and help the Neighbors Foundation continue its work into the new year.

In addition to financial donations, community members can contribute nonperishable food items at collection barrels placed across the Island. These donations not only support the holiday effort, but also help restock the Neighbors Foundation’s pantry into the new year.

Food donation barrels are located at: Century 21-Northeast, DeGlopper VFW Post, Dollar General (both Love Road and Grand Island Plaza locations), Golden Age Center, Grand Island Dance Studio, Grand Island Memorial Library, Grand Island Post Office, Howard Hannah Real Estate, Island Body Works, Island Kids Daycare (both North and South locations), Island Ship Center, HUNT Real Estate ERA, Hybrid Defense, Leaf Stone and Steel Shop, Mallwitz’s Island Lanes, Miss Cathy’s Dance Academy, Moose Lodge No. 180, Pickleball Island, St. Stephen R.C. Church, Thompson’s Farm Market, Trilogy (The MOG), Walgreens, and WellNow.

“We are so grateful to the many local businesses and organizations that have placed donation barrels and supported this effort,” said Gene Runions, Neighbors Foundation board member. “Every can, box and bag of food makes a real difference. These collection sites are visible reminders that, when we each give a little, together we can do something truly great for our neighbors.”

•The Grand Island Neighbors Foundation was the grateful recipient of $784 from the VFW Auxiliary “Soupathon” which was held Nov. 1 at VFW Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249 on Grand Island.

Thanks to all who made and donated soup, and for all who supported the event and enjoyed the delicious offerings. Special thanks to VFW Auxiliary President Kathy Blake, who arranged the event; and also to Tom Morgan from Top Notch Sewer and Drain Cleaning, who donated an additional $100 to the Neighbors Foundation.

The Neighbors Foundation, an all-volunteer organization, will use the donated funds to provide confidential food assistance to those in need on Grand Island.

To learn more about the Neighbors Foundation, donate, or request assistance, please contact us at 716-775-7998 or at www.GINeighbors.org.

“Neighbors Helping Neighbors!”

Pictured: Neighbors Foundation board member Annie Carlson and VFW Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post 9249 representative Anthony Chase with the Neighbors Foundation food donation barrel at the VFW site.

Pictured: Autumn Spinella, VFW Auxiliary member; Kathy Blake VFW Auxiliary president; David Conboy, Neighbors Foundation president and VFW life member; and Tom Morgan of Top Notch Sewer and Drain Cleaning Inc.