ALBANY, NY – Chair of the Albany County Legislative Black Caucus Dr. Carolyn McLaughlin, along with Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham and Legislators Susan Quine-Laurilliard, Lynne Lekakis, Matt Miller, Susan Pedo, and Mark Robinson delivered around 1,300 pounds of non-perishable food to the Regional Food Bank on Friday. 

The delivery complements $405 that was donated from across the county as part of the 7th Annual Martin Luther King Food Drive.

Overall, the donations combine to create well over 2,000 meals for families in need in Albany County.

Albany County Legislature Chairwoman Joanne Cunningham said: “During his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize speech, Dr. King asked, ‘Why should there be hunger and deprivation in any land, in any city, at any table, when man has the resources and the scientific know-how to provide all mankind with the basic necessities of life?’ For me, this question is why we hold this drive every year. As a Legislature we will continue to lead the fight against food insecurity in Albany County. This kind of equity goes beyond just providing meals. It’s about equal access to nutrition for all, regardless of economic status, race, or location.”

Albany County Legislature Deputy Chairwoman Wanda Willingham said: “Just a year and a half ago we found out that 1 in 10 people in Albany County are considered food insecure. 1 in 7 children are going to school hungry. These numbers haven’t moved very much in the last 18 months. In these uncertain and sometimes downright frightening days we are navigating, the Albany County Legislature is going to do everything in its power to ensure that food and services are available to all of our residents when they need it.”

Albany County Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus Carolyn McLaughlin said: “With this being the seventh year of this annual drive, I am so thankful for the generosity from so many in the county. We have incredible partners – the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club, MVP Arena, and the North Albany American Legion Post 1610. Their leadership and collaboration have been instrumental in making this possible. This food drive is critical as food pantries across the Capital Region are facing a 25% growth in demand.”

Regional Food Bank Chief Executive Officer Tom Nardacci said: “We are not able to feed our neighbors in need without the generosity and support of our community. The Albany County Legislature, specifically the Black Legislative Caucus, truly sees and understands the needs of their community, which is why they are among our most constant and compassionate supporters. Through this food drive, to honor the memory of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and every day of the year, their support allows us to have a meaningful impact in the battle against food insecurity.” 

Albany County Democratic Majority Leader Dennis Feeney said: “We are proud to stand with the Legislative Black Caucus as they continue to exemplify the spirit of service that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. championed. Food insecurity is a pressing issue in our community, and through this annual food drive, we not only honor Dr. King’s legacy, but also take meaningful action to support families in need. The Democratic Majority remains committed to working with local partners like the Regional Food Bank to ensure that no one in Albany County goes hungry.”