At a news conference earlier today, SEFCU unveiled a new plan to fight hunger in upstate New York.

The credit union will put forth more than $500,000 to fund the effort through three major initiatives: First, SEFCU will distribute more than $300,000 to over 40 non-profit organizations who serve the hungry and homeless across upstate New York. Additionally, SEFCU is purchasing a high-tech hydroponic “Freight Farm” for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Capital Area. With a value of more than $100,000, the farm will help the Boys and Girls Clubs grow their own fresh vegetables to feed the children in its programs, teach them about technology and farming, and generate additional revenue. Finally, SEFCU is providing the Food Pantries for the Capital District with a $120,000 grant to purchase a “produce shuttle” that will deliver fresh food, including vegetables grown in SEFCU’s own Freight Farm, to people who would not have access otherwise.

“At SEFCU, we are committed to changing lives across the communities we serve, and that starts with helping people meet their most basic needs,” said SEFCU President/CEO Michael J. Castellana. “That is why we are taking a holistic approach to addressing the problem of hunger in our community. Food insecurity is a major problem, and by supporting nonprofit organizations who are working tirelessly with the hungry and homeless, we are helping to feed individuals and families across the state, and giving them hope for brighter days ahead. That’s just the start. We are shifting our paradigm around hunger, and Freight Farming is the perfect way to make that happen.”