Hunger and food insecurity continue to be a huge problem in New York State and all across the U.S. In 2020, the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley estimated that the need for food donations was 50% higher than the previous year. The most recent study done by the food bank stated that they assist approximately 244,400 people each year.
Soup kitchens, and shelters are some of the few places that provide food services to people in need. One non-profit in particular, Angel Food East is located nearby in Kingston, NY.
Angel Food East was founded in 1992 amidst the AIDS crisis and delivered meals to people with HIV/AIDS. Now they deliver meals two times a week to homebound people all over Ulster County. The organization serves those who may not meet the requirements for government assistance but still need help getting meals.
The cooks use the St. John’s Episcopal Church kitchen to make all the food. In adition to full meals they bake bread, cookies and pies regularly.
Even though Angel Food East has expanded they haven’t abandoned their original clientele. Each year, Angel Food East participates in the Ulster County AIDS Consortium, International AIDS Day and accepts referrals from various agencies serving people with HIV/AIDS.
Angel Food East needs lots of help with all their work. They need volunteers for shopping, cooking, washing dishes, delivering the meals and more. You can sign up to volunteer right on their website or by emailing contact@angelfoodeast.org.
They are also looking for donations and accept any grants from business and individuals in the community. You can make an online donation or send a check to their P.O. box, 3813 207 Albany Avenue Kingston, NY 12492.
Angel Food East is open Mondays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. through 12 p.m. For more information you can visit their website www.angelfoodeast.org.
