Together we are Feeding Westchester
Our mission is to nourish our neighbors in the fight against hunger. We envision a community where all people have access to the food they need today, and the fundamental resources to build a better tomorrow.
At the heart of a collaborative and community effort
We work alongside 175 community partners, sourcing and distributing food and other resources to communities across Westchester, helping to ensure that none of our neighbors are hungry.
Nourishing Our Westchester Community
For nearly 40 years, Feeding Westchester has been driven by a mission to put the needs of our neighbors first. We believe food is a fundamental right and collaborate to create solutions that not only address hunger but also tackle its root causes.
We focus on supporting neighbors struggling with hunger.
We advocate for equity and social justice.
We promote inclusive communities.
We lead with courage to create lasting change.
Coming here and having these services has been very helpful because having resources from the food pantry and then having these counselors became life-saving.
Viclenia, Westchester Community College Student
Our Memberships
Feeding America
Feeding Westchester is a member of Feeding America, the nationwide network of more than 200 food banks serving every state in the United States. Our partnership gives us access to millions of pounds of donated food products from national companies, and provides access to training and resources that help us maximize efficiency. We are proud to be part of the top ten percent of Feeding America’s member food banks for distributing nutritious food to our neighbors in need.
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Feeding New York State
Feeding New York State is a non-profit organization representing the regional food banks across the New York area. Their mission is to lead a unified effort for a hunger-free New York state.
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Our History
For decades, Feeding Westchester has grown, innovated, and served with compassion, ensuring neighbors in need have access to nutritious food. Our history reflects a commitment to community, dignity, and lasting impact.
1988
Westchester’s Food Bank: Food-PATCH
Food-PATCH (People Allied to Combat Hunger) was officially incorporated as a nonprofit to create a centralized system for rescuing and distributing surplus food in Westchester County. At the time, perfectly good food was often discarded due to minor packaging flaws or approaching expiration dates, highlighting the need for a coordinated hunger relief effort.
Incorporation as a nonprofit allowed the organization to start operations with modest resources: one man and a van. Early supporters quickly began the search for a warehouse, developed organizational plans and built the foundation for Westchester’s first food bank, designed to reduce food waste and ensure access to nutritious food for neighbors in need.
1989-1999
Expansion Milestones
1989: Building on the groundwork laid the year before, we opened our first warehouse in Mount Pleasant, marking the start of full-scale operations. That same year, we joined America’s Second Harvest (now Feeding America), expanding our reach through a national network.
1993: Food-PATCH relocated to Millwood, featuring upgraded refrigeration and storage systems. These improvements allowed us to handle greater food donations and better serve the community’s needs.
1999: The launch of the Mobile Food Pantry increased access to fresh and perishable foods across Westchester, streamlining food distribution and expanding the organization’s impact.
2000-2017
Food Bank for Westchester
2007: Food-PATCH rebranded as Food Bank for Westchester to better reflect our expanded mission and scope. By this time, we were distributing more than 5 million pounds of food through 167 local programs.
2012: Food Bank for Westchester moved to Elmsford, home to the largest walk-in freezer in Westchester County, expanding food storage and distribution capabilities.
2013: We expanded our mobile pantry program with improved vehicles, increased storage, and greater capacity to reach more high-need communities.
2018
Feeding Westchester
Food Bank for Westchester rebranded as Feeding Westchester to better align with its evolving mission and vision. The new name reflected our broader scope and commitment to addressing hunger across Westchester County.
This also marked our 30th anniversary, a milestone to reflect on strides in providing nutritious food and set a vision for greater impact ahead.
As a member of Feeding America, we contribute to a network providing nearly 6 billion meals to more than 47 million neighbors each year.
2020-2022
COVID-19 Pandemic
2020: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we doubled distribution to meet unprecedented demand. Families and individuals facing heightened challenges were able to put food on their tables.
We expanded emergency partnerships with agencies, healthcare providers, and community organizations. With support from the National Guard, who helped manage logistics and distribution, we met the crisis head-on.
2023-now
Ongoing Commitment
2023–2025: Feeding Westchester’s Distribution Center expanded in four phases: 12,000 sq. ft. staging space, 6,500 sq. ft. office expansion, 2,500 sq. ft. cooler capacity, and 6,800 sq. ft. dry storage plus expanded loading docks.
Present Day: We are a passionate, mission-driven organization nourishing neighbors in need. Thousands of families across Westchester County can put healthy food on the table thanks to decades of support.
Together we feed for a better tomorrow
There are great ways to help us. Take action today, and change lives.
Corporate Support
Empower your employees through corporate volunteering.
Advocacy
Lawmakers need to hear from the communities their decisions affect.
Start a Fundraiser
Turn your passion into impact. Create or support a fundraiser to help nourish our community.
Volunteer
Give your time. Change Lives. Join us at home, in person, or through mission-driven events.
Stay Connected
Learn how you can take action in the fight against hunger. Join our mailing list. You’ll receive stories about the people your support helps, the people who help, and other ways you can make an impact and use your voice.
