2024-2025
ANNUAL REPORT
Our mission is to deliver an informed and equitable response to hunger by mobilizing community partners, volunteers, and supporters.
2024-2025
ANNUAL
REPORT
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
From Our CEO & Board Chair
From Our CEO & Board Chair
Friends,
This past year changed everything for food banks. The need in our communities is growing fast, and more working families and seniors are reaching out for help. At the same time, the charitable food system has less to give because of cuts to federal programs and funding. On top of that, five years of high inflation have made everyday essentials—and especially food—much more expensive.
All of this has led us to a hard truth: more than 500,000 people in Connecticut are now living with food insecurity. That number isn’t just a statistic. It represents families, seniors, and children who are unsure where their next meal will come from. They are our neighbors—and they need us now more than ever.
Through it all, your generosity carried us—and carried them—through. Because of you, help continued to show up when it mattered most. This is our community, and this is our food bank. We are deeply grateful to our donors across the retail and food industry, foundations, corporate partners, individuals, and our treasured volunteers. Our volunteers make every aspect of this work possible—we simply cannot fulfill our mission without them.
This past year, we reached out to our guests and supporters. Through our Mobile Pantry survey, neighbors told us what they need most, and we elevated their voices through storytelling to inspire and remind us why this mission matters. Through our donor surveys, you told us what matters to you, and we are committed to ensuring your generosity has the impact you expect.
As one donor shared: “Knowing my support helps families right here at home means everything.”
We also launched our second Neighbor Council cohort, and they, alongside our inaugural members, became more involved in our mission. They stood beside us as advocates and shared their lived experiences. They remind us all that we are one Connecticut, and this fight against hunger is our shared responsibility.
It has been a challenging year, but together, we have proven what is possible. And we’re not stopping. We approved a new strategic plan to guide our future, and you will hear more about it in the coming months.
Thank you for continuing to care, for staying open and open-hearted. Your voice matters - through your feedback, your time, and your support. Together, we can build a Connecticut where no one goes hungry.
With gratitude,
Jason Jakubowski, President and CEO
Pete Sannizzaro, Board Chair
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
From Our CEO & Board Chair
From Our CEO & Board Chair
Friends,
This past year changed everything for food banks. The need in our communities is growing fast, and more working families and seniors are reaching out for help. At the same time, the charitable food system has less to give because of cuts to federal programs and funding. On top of that, five years of high inflation have made everyday essentials—and especially food—much more expensive.
Continue Reading...
All of this has led us to a hard truth: more than 500,000 people in Connecticut are now living with food insecurity. That number isn’t just a statistic. It represents families, seniors, and children who are unsure where their next meal will come from. They are our neighbors—and they need us now more than ever.
Through it all, your generosity carried us—and carried them—through. Because of you, help continued to show up when it mattered most. This is our community, and this is our food bank. We are deeply grateful to our donors across the retail and food industry, foundations, corporate partners, individuals, and our treasured volunteers. Our volunteers make every aspect of this work possible—we simply cannot fulfill our mission without them.
This past year, we reached out to our guests and supporters. Through our Mobile Pantry survey, neighbors told us what they need most, and we elevated their voices through storytelling to inspire and remind us why this mission matters. Through our donor surveys, you told us what matters to you, and we are committed to ensuring your generosity has the impact you expect.
As one donor shared: “Knowing my support helps families right here at home means everything.”
We also launched our second Neighbor Council cohort, and they, alongside our inaugural members, became more involved in our mission. They stood beside us as advocates and shared their lived experiences. They remind us all that we are one Connecticut, and this fight against hunger is our shared responsibility.
It has been a challenging year, but together, we have proven what is possible. And we’re not stopping. We approved a new strategic plan to guide our future, and you will hear more about it in the coming months.
Thank you for continuing to care, for staying open and open-hearted. Your voice matters - through your feedback, your time, and your support. Together, we can build a Connecticut where no one goes hungry.
With gratitude,
Jason Jakubowski,
President and CEO
Pete Sannizzaro,
Board Chair
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
47 Million Meals
Thanks to the network of agency partners, volunteers, and generous donors, Connecticut Foodshare
made 47 million meals a reality
to our community!
Agency Partners
Our work could not be possible without the network of partner food pantries and community kitchens who help to support our neighbors experiencing food insecurity across the state.
38M+ MEALS THROUGH 493 AGENCY PARTNERS
Mobile Food Pantry
Connecticut Foodshare’s mobile food pantries span statewide so people can get the food they need. These pantries are a critical part of addressing food insecurity in our communities.
5M+ MEALS THROUGH OVER 110 MOBILE FOOD PANTRY SITES,
SERVING AN AVERAGE 27,390 HOUSEHOLDS MONTHLY
SNAP
SNAP is our nation’s first line of defense against hunger and provides 9 meals for every 1 meal that a food bank can provide. Connecticut Foodshare has been providing SNAP application assistance to our neighbors for almost 20 years.
2.4M MEALS THROUGH HELPING 2,645 HOUSEHOLDS APPLY FOR SNAP
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
47 Million Meals
Thanks to the network of agency partners, volunteers, and generous donors,
Connecticut Foodshare made 47 million meals a reality for our community!
Our work could not be possible without the network of partner food pantries and community kitchens who help to support our neighbors experiencing food insecurity across the state.
38M+ meals through 493 Agency Partners
Connecticut Foodshare’s mobile food pantries span statewide so people can get the food they need. These pantries are a critical part of addressing food insecurity in our communities.
5M+ meals through over 110 mobile food pantry sites, serving an average 27,390 households monthly
SNAP is our nation’s first line of defense against hunger and provides 9 meals for every 1 meal that a food bank can provide. Connecticut Foodshare has been providing SNAP application assistance to our neighbors for almost 20 years.
2.4M meals through helping 2,645 households apply for SNAP
I registered for the food pantry and I came in and there was so much…Trying to keep up with my protein diet can be really expensive. It definitely helps. You can channel that money to something else.
Joan,
A student and visitor at university food pantry in Bridgeport
I’m renting, and it’s a lot of bills to get taken care of. You can go to the supermarket and two bags [cost] $80 easily. I have a little girl, she’s 14, and another [child], 17. It is a big help, let me tell you. Thank you, guys, for everything you do!
Daniel,
A visitor to a Stamford mobile food pantry
I am grateful for your support in my hard times. At first I didn't know what to do, but you were there with me.
You helped me and I am very grateful, thanks. I am working now—thank you for helping me.
Macy,
A senior who applied for SNAP with our SNAP Outreach Team's Assistance
I registered for the food pantry and I came in and there was so much…Trying to keep up with my protein diet can be really expensive. It definitely helps. You can channel that money to something else.
Joan,
A student and visitor at university food pantry in Bridgeport
I’m renting, and it’s a lot of bills to get taken care of. You can go to the supermarket and two bags [cost] $80 easily. I have a little girl, she’s 14, and another [child], 17. It is a big help, let me tell you. Thank you, guys, for everything you do!
Daniel,
A visitor to a Stamford mobile food pantry
I am grateful for your support in my hard times. At first I didn't know what to do, but you were there with me.
You helped me and I am very grateful, thanks. I am working now—thank you for helping me.
Macy,
A senior who applied for SNAP with our SNAP Outreach Team's Assistance
47 MILLION MEALS
Volunteers
Volunteers are at the heart – and foundation - of Connecticut Foodshare’s success. They bring passion, dedication, and a wealth of skills that help drive our mission forward. Join us in thanking over 6,000 volunteers who donated their time this year!
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
Nourishing Our Neighbors
Thanks to the generosity of local and national grocery stores, retailers, distributors and manufacturers, we were able to provide our neighbors with the food they need to thrive.
View Full List...
Western Harvest
Stop & Shop, Inc.
Mid Atlantic Regional Cooperative
Big Y
Target
Costco Wholesale
United Natural Foods, Inc.
Sam's Wholesale Club
BJ's Wholesale Club
Fresh Point
Shop Rite
Whole Foods
Bozzuto's Inc.
Walmart
Pepperidge Farms, Inc.
Aldi's
Trader Joe's/World Distribution Class
C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc.
Tara Farms
Sysco
Country Pure Foods, Inc.
Niagara Bottling, LLC
Frito Lay
Bimbo Bakeries USA
Sardilli Produce & Dairy
PetSmart Charities
Price Chopper
Coca-Cola
US Food Service
Reverse Solutions - The Outlet
Lactalis Yogurt USA
Amazon
SeaShare
Norton Brothers Fruit Farm
ConAgra
Ghost Energy
Fair Weather Farms
Hartford Provision Company
Dollar Tree
Nuovo Pasta Productions, Ltd
Blue Hills Orchard
Reichle Farms
Fresh Connect
Dollar General
Garelick Farms
Frozen Food Express
CT Food 4 Thought
Mars Food
Hometown Foundation
Tyson Foods, Inc.
Bartolotta, Inc.
Cumberland Farms
Gresczyk Farm
BOGOPA - Food Bazaar
Procter & Gamble Company
J. DeFrancesco and Son
Northeast Beverage Corp of CT
B&E Juice
Bishop's Farm & Winery
Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.
Kellogg Company
CT Agricultural Experiment Station
Rich's Food Service
Nestle, USA
Culture Fresh
Bussa Farms
Price Rite
Advanced Auto
| Western Harvest |
|---|
| Stop & Shop, Inc. |
| Mid Atlantic Regional Cooperative |
| Big Y |
| Target |
| Costco Wholesale |
| United Natural Foods, Inc. |
| Sam's Wholesale Club |
| BJ's Wholesale Club |
| Fresh Point |
| Shop Rite |
| Whole Foods |
| Bozzuto's Inc. |
| Walmart |
| Pepperidge Farms, Inc. |
| Aldi's |
| Trader Joe's/World Distribution Class |
| C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc. |
|---|
| Tara Farms |
| Sysco |
| Country Pure Foods, Inc. |
| Niagara Bottling, LLC |
| Frito Lay |
| Bimbo Bakeries USA |
| Sardilli Produce & Dairy |
| PetSmart Charities |
| Price Chopper |
| Coca-Cola |
| US Food Service |
| Reverse Solutions - The Outlet |
| Lactalis Yogurt USA |
| Amazon |
| SeaShare |
| Norton Brothers Fruit Farm |
| ConAgra |
|---|
| Ghost Energy |
| Fair Weather Farms |
| Hartford Provision Company |
| Dollar Tree |
| Nuovo Pasta Productions, Ltd |
| Blue Hills Orchard |
| Reichle Farms |
| Fresh Connect |
| Dollar General |
| Garelick Farms |
| Frozen Food Express |
| CT Food 4 Thought |
| Mars Food |
| Hometown Foundation |
| Tyson Foods, Inc. |
| Bartolotta, Inc. |
| Cumberland Farms |
|---|
| Gresczyk Farm |
| BOGOPA - Food Bazaar |
| Procter & Gamble Company |
| J. DeFrancesco and Son |
| Northeast Beverage Corp of CT |
| B&E Juice |
| Bishop's Farm & Winery |
| Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. |
| Kellogg Company |
| CT Agricultural Experiment Station |
| Rich's Food Service |
| Nestle, USA |
| Culture Fresh |
| Bussa Farms |
| Price Rite |
| Advanced Auto |
Corporate & Foundation Donors
View List...
Stop & Shop, New England Division
Feeding America
Wakefern Food Corporation
Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
The Neag Foundation
KeyBank Foundation
RTX Corporation
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
BJ's Charitable Foundation
Philip Morris International Inc.
Talcott Financial Group
Lincoln Financial Foundation, Inc.
Gemini Networks CT, Inc.
American Savings Foundation
Big Y World Class Market
The Werth Family Foundation
Costco Wholesale Corporation
Fairfield County's Community Foundation
St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church
Walmart
The Hayes Foundation
Bank of America
Americorps
TJX Foundation, Inc.
Bedoukian Research Inc.
Tudor Foundation
Charles A. Frueauff Foundation
The JANA Foundation Inc
Kia America
Turner Family Foundation
CVS Health
Renee B. Fisher Foundation, Inc.
Earth Animal
Lockheed Martin
Enterprise Mobility Foundation
Webster Bank Charitable Foundation
Twenty-Seven Foundation
McDermott Family Charitable Trust
Horatio's Heroes Inc.
M&T Bank Community Foundation
State Farm Insurance
Ensworth Charitable Foundation
Zisson Foundation
Albertsons Companies Foundation
Point32Health Foundation
NJM Insurance Group
Travelers
Cigna
Avangrid Foundation
LEGO Systems Inc
Knights of Columbus
SBM Charitable Foundation, Inc.
The Owenoke Foundation
Archdiocese of Hartford
ConnectiCare, Inc. & Affiliates
Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation
The Alice Lawrence Foundation, Inc.
The Joseph P. & Colleen M. Brandon Family Foundation
Citizens Bank Foundation
The Macauley Foundation
Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, P.C.
Chuza Foundation
Community Snacks
First Reserve
M K Reichert Sternlicht Foundation
Charles D. Fleischman Charitable Trust
Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Haven Hot Chicken
Dave's Inc.
Eav Retail LLC
Community Foundation of Middlesex County Inc
Genworth Foundation
Chubb Charitable Foundation
Campbell's Foundation
C & S Wholesale Grocers
Wayne Eisenbaum Charitable Foundation
The Daniel & Sharon Milikowsky Family Foundation
Lil & Julie Rosenberg Foundation
The Skye Foundation
The Mark W Blackman & Deborah H Blackman Family Foundation
The Fortin Foundation Inc
Lorensen Auto Group
The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven
Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation
PayPal Giving Fund
The SNJ Family Fund
MassMutual
Connecticut Community Foundation
FactSet Research Systems
TDC Specialty Underwriters, Inc.
Sylvan C. Coleman Charitable Trust
The David and Eunice Bigelow Foundation
Treasure Hill Foundation
The Shack Sackler Foundation
BoxLunch
The Roger D Wehage 2014 Trust
The Claire Helsing Foundation
Connecticut Container Corp.
Dimeo Construction Company
Star Group
Crate & Barrel
The Dick & Bernice Ramsey Charitable Fund
Stanley Black & Decker Inc.
The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
Turner Construction Company
Farmington Bank Community Foundation
Connecticut Bar Association Inc
The Elizabeth M. Landon and Harriette M. Landon Charitable
Haydon Kerk Pittman, a Division of Ametek
Nassau Financial Group
United Health Group
United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls, Inc.
Santander Bank N. A.
Boehringer-Ingelheim
Taste of Hartford, LLC
Fitness International
Munich Re America, Inc.
Eversource Energy Foundation
Comcast Corporation
William and Alice Mortensen Foundation
Rogin Nassau LLC
Connecticut Health Foundation, Inc.
Liberty Bank
McLelland Family Foundation
Hartford Healthcare
American Electro Products, Inc.
Robert & Diana Borman Family Foundation
The Stroup Family Fund
Bondi Foundation
Liberty Bank Foundation
Albert Wadsworth & Helen Meserve Memorial Fund
Klein Family Foundation, Inc.
McInerney & Fafard Foundation
Henkel Corporation
Thrill Hill Productions, Inc.
The Pinkus Foundation
Tan-MacShane Foundation
The Selander Foundation
The Kurtz Family Foundation
The Draper Foundation Fund
Fifth Generation, Inc - Tito's Vodka
Lena Benas Memorial Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee
Lucia P. Fulton Foundation
Bailey Enterprises LLC
The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Co.
Meo Charitable Foundation
The Brian & Marilyn Lindsay Foundation, Inc.
PeoplesBank
Quiros Family Foundation
The Ruth Krauss Foundation
Chelsea Groton Bank
Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund, Bank of America, N.A.,
ConAgra Grocery Products Company
The Pfizer Foundation
Coca-Cola North America
Provident Foundation Trust
The Meriden Foundation
CapSpecialty
Arch Capital Group
Connecticut Public Television
First Church of Christ New Britain
William & Ellen E. Macristy Foundation
Connecticut Valley Crematory, LLC
The Robins Family Foundation
The Grace Jones Richardson Trust
Aspen Insurance
Cowles Family Foundation
Disney EARS to You Fund
Dime Bank Foundation Inc
The Cheryl Chase and Stuart Bear Family Foundation
The Rhoda and David Chase Family Foundation
American Property Casualty Insurance Association
Microsoft
Image Marketing Consultants, LLC
Golub Corporation
Global Partners
Charter Oak Federal Credit Union
BL Companies, Inc.
Immanuel Congregational Church, Inc.
Governor's Care & Share
Innovative Information Solutions, Inc.
Waterbury CT Teachers Federal Credit Union
The Cuno Foundation
The Robert and Judith Sturgis Family Foundation
Voya Financial
Empire Industries Inc
St. John's Episcopal Church
Guardian Life Insurance Company
Swiss Re American Holding Company
Swedish Aid Society, Inc.
Google (Matching Gifts Program)
Crum & Forster
Global Atlantic
Elevance Health
Christian Community Foundation, Inc.
Westfield Bank
Ollie's Bargain Outlet
Highland Park Market
Kaman Corporation
McPhee Electric Ltd
The Edgemer Foundation, Inc.
BACH Wealth Management, LLC
Local 478, International Union of Operating Engineers
White & Katzman
Alumnae Assoc. of The Hartford Hospital School of Nursing
Hoag Family Charitable Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Tr
The James H. Napier Foundation
United Illuminating Co
The Nicholas & Viola Spinelli Foundation
Amphenol Corporation
American Natural Soda Ash Corporation
The McCance Foundation
The Aiello Charitable Foundation, Inc.
Market New Haven
O'Donnell Iselin Foundation
Linford & Mildred White Charitable Fund
Hawaux Foundation
Brownington Foundation
Boost Oxygen LLC
Luchs Consulting Engineers LLC
CrossBay Capital Partners
The Jane and William Curran Foundation Inc
The Hazel Dell Foundation Inc
Be The One Foundation Inc.
The Elsie A. Brown Fund Inc.
Rockville Bank Community Foundation, Inc.
The Rose Family Foundation
Farm Credit East Cares
Instacart
iCapital Network, Inc.
Tweed New Haven Airport
BMW of Darien
Clark Enterprises
| Stop & Shop, New England Division |
|---|
| Feeding America |
| Wakefern Food Corporation |
| Hartford Foundation for Public Giving |
| The Neag Foundation |
| KeyBank Foundation |
| RTX Corporation |
| The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. |
| BJ's Charitable Foundation |
| Philip Morris International Inc. |
| Talcott Financial Group |
| Lincoln Financial Foundation, Inc. |
| Gemini Networks CT, Inc. |
| American Savings Foundation |
| Big Y World Class Market |
| The Werth Family Foundation |
| Costco Wholesale Corporation |
| Fairfield County's Community Foundation |
| St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church |
| Walmart |
| The Hayes Foundation |
| Bank of America |
| Americorps |
| TJX Foundation, Inc. |
| Bedoukian Research Inc. |
| Tudor Foundation |
| Charles A. Frueauff Foundation |
| The JANA Foundation Inc |
| Kia America |
| Turner Family Foundation |
| CVS Health |
| Renee B. Fisher Foundation, Inc. |
| Earth Animal |
| Lockheed Martin |
| Enterprise Mobility Foundation |
| Webster Bank Charitable Foundation |
| Twenty-Seven Foundation |
| McDermott Family Charitable Trust |
| Horatio's Heroes Inc. |
| M&T Bank Community Foundation |
| State Farm Insurance |
| Ensworth Charitable Foundation |
| Zisson Foundation |
| Albertsons Companies Foundation |
| Point32Health Foundation |
| NJM Insurance Group |
| Travelers |
| Cigna |
| Avangrid Foundation |
| LEGO Systems Inc |
| Knights of Columbus |
| SBM Charitable Foundation, Inc. |
| The Owenoke Foundation |
| Archdiocese of Hartford |
| ConnectiCare, Inc. & Affiliates |
| Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation |
| The Alice Lawrence Foundation, Inc. |
| The Joseph P. & Colleen M. Brandon Family Foundation |
| Citizens Bank Foundation |
| The Macauley Foundation |
|---|
| Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, P.C. |
| Chuza Foundation |
| Community Snacks |
| First Reserve |
| M K Reichert Sternlicht Foundation |
| Charles D. Fleischman Charitable Trust |
| Bank of America Charitable Foundation |
| Haven Hot Chicken |
| Dave's Inc. |
| Eav Retail LLC |
| Community Foundation of Middlesex County Inc |
| Genworth Foundation |
| Chubb Charitable Foundation |
| Campbell's Foundation |
| C & S Wholesale Grocers |
| Wayne Eisenbaum Charitable Foundation |
| The Daniel & Sharon Milikowsky Family Foundation |
| Lil & Julie Rosenberg Foundation |
| The Skye Foundation |
| The Mark W Blackman & Deborah H Blackman Family Foundation |
| The Fortin Foundation Inc |
| Lorensen Auto Group |
| The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven |
| Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation |
| PayPal Giving Fund |
| The SNJ Family Fund |
| MassMutual |
| Connecticut Community Foundation |
| FactSet Research Systems |
| TDC Specialty Underwriters, Inc. |
| Sylvan C. Coleman Charitable Trust |
| The David and Eunice Bigelow Foundation |
| Treasure Hill Foundation |
| The Shack Sackler Foundation |
| BoxLunch |
| The Roger D Wehage 2014 Trust |
| The Claire Helsing Foundation |
| Connecticut Container Corp. |
| Dimeo Construction Company |
| Star Group |
| Crate & Barrel |
| The Dick & Bernice Ramsey Charitable Fund |
| Stanley Black & Decker Inc. |
| The Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut |
| Turner Construction Company |
| Farmington Bank Community Foundation |
| Connecticut Bar Association Inc |
| The Elizabeth M. Landon and Harriette M. Landon Charitable |
| Haydon Kerk Pittman, a Division of Ametek |
| Nassau Financial Group |
| United Health Group |
| United Way of Naugatuck & Beacon Falls, Inc. |
| Santander Bank N. A. |
| Boehringer-Ingelheim |
| Taste of Hartford, LLC |
| Fitness International |
| Munich Re America, Inc. |
| Eversource Energy Foundation |
| Comcast Corporation |
| William and Alice Mortensen Foundation |
|---|
| Rogin Nassau LLC |
| Connecticut Health Foundation, Inc. |
| Liberty Bank |
| McLelland Family Foundation |
| Hartford Healthcare |
| American Electro Products, Inc. |
| Robert & Diana Borman Family Foundation |
| The Stroup Family Fund |
| Bondi Foundation |
| Liberty Bank Foundation |
| Albert Wadsworth & Helen Meserve Memorial Fund |
| Klein Family Foundation, Inc. |
| McInerney & Fafard Foundation |
| Henkel Corporation |
| Thrill Hill Productions, Inc. |
| The Pinkus Foundation |
| Tan-MacShane Foundation |
| The Selander Foundation |
| The Kurtz Family Foundation |
| The Draper Foundation Fund |
| Fifth Generation, Inc - Tito's Vodka |
| Lena Benas Memorial Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee |
| Lucia P. Fulton Foundation |
| Bailey Enterprises LLC |
| The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Co. |
| Meo Charitable Foundation |
| The Brian & Marilyn Lindsay Foundation, Inc. |
| PeoplesBank |
| Quiros Family Foundation |
| The Ruth Krauss Foundation |
| Chelsea Groton Bank |
| Thomas J. Atkins Memorial Trust Fund, Bank of America, N.A., |
| ConAgra Grocery Products Company |
| The Pfizer Foundation |
| Coca-Cola North America |
| Provident Foundation Trust |
| The Meriden Foundation |
| CapSpecialty |
| Arch Capital Group |
| Connecticut Public Television |
| First Church of Christ New Britain |
| William & Ellen E. Macristy Foundation |
| Connecticut Valley Crematory, LLC |
| The Robins Family Foundation |
| The Grace Jones Richardson Trust |
| Aspen Insurance |
| Cowles Family Foundation |
| Disney EARS to You Fund |
| Dime Bank Foundation Inc |
| The Cheryl Chase and Stuart Bear Family Foundation |
| The Rhoda and David Chase Family Foundation |
| American Property Casualty Insurance Association |
| Microsoft |
| Image Marketing Consultants, LLC |
| Golub Corporation |
| Global Partners |
| Charter Oak Federal Credit Union |
| BL Companies, Inc. |
| Immanuel Congregational Church, Inc. |
| Governor's Care & Share |
|---|
| Innovative Information Solutions, Inc. |
| Waterbury CT Teachers Federal Credit Union |
| The Cuno Foundation |
| The Robert and Judith Sturgis Family Foundation |
| Voya Financial |
| Empire Industries Inc |
| St. John's Episcopal Church |
| Guardian Life Insurance Company |
| Swiss Re American Holding Company |
| Swedish Aid Society, Inc. |
| Google (Matching Gifts Program) |
| Crum & Forster |
| Global Atlantic |
| Elevance Health |
| Christian Community Foundation, Inc. |
| Westfield Bank |
| Ollie's Bargain Outlet |
| Highland Park Market |
| Kaman Corporation |
| McPhee Electric Ltd |
| The Edgemer Foundation, Inc. |
| BACH Wealth Management, LLC |
| Local 478, International Union of Operating Engineers |
| White & Katzman |
| Alumnae Assoc. of The Hartford Hospital School of Nursing |
| Hoag Family Charitable Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Tr |
| The James H. Napier Foundation |
| United Illuminating Co |
| The Nicholas & Viola Spinelli Foundation |
| Amphenol Corporation |
| American Natural Soda Ash Corporation |
| The McCance Foundation |
| The Aiello Charitable Foundation, Inc. |
| Market New Haven |
| O'Donnell Iselin Foundation |
| Linford & Mildred White Charitable Fund |
| Hawaux Foundation |
| Brownington Foundation |
| Boost Oxygen LLC |
| Luchs Consulting Engineers LLC |
| CrossBay Capital Partners |
| The Jane and William Curran Foundation Inc |
| The Hazel Dell Foundation Inc |
| Be The One Foundation Inc. |
| The Elsie A. Brown Fund Inc. |
| Rockville Bank Community Foundation, Inc. |
| The Rose Family Foundation |
| Farm Credit East Cares |
| Instacart |
| iCapital Network, Inc. |
| Tweed New Haven Airport |
| BMW of Darien |
| Clark Enterprises |
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
Highlights From Our Team
This year, our team continued to strengthen engagement, expand our impact, and build meaningful connections in our community. We’re proud of the progress made this year—and excited to carry this momentum forward!
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Government Relations
Government Relations
This year, our Advocacy team advanced significant policy wins to strengthen nutrition security across Connecticut. We secured a landmark $9 million appropriation for the Connecticut Nutrition Assistance Program in the 2026–2027 Biennium Budget—the first substantial increase in more than a decade. Our team also mobilized broad legislative support for HB7021, testifying alongside dozens of advocates and helping to secure more than 50 co‑sponsors.
We deepened relationships with elected officials, state agencies, and executive branch leaders by bringing them directly into communities—visiting Mobile Pantry distributions and agency partners, elevating neighbor voices, and fostering bipartisan collaboration to better serve Connecticut residents.
At the federal level, we met with the full Connecticut delegation in Washington, D.C., advocating for strong investments in TEFAP, SNAP, and CSFP to protect vital nutrition programs. Our President and CEO completed his third and final year as Chair of Feeding America’s Policy Engagement & Advocacy Committee, helping to shape national advocacy priorities that advance nutrition security for our neighbors.
Throughout the year, we worked closely with the Connecticut Foodshare agency network and partner coalitions to elevate nutrition issues as a statewide priority, ensuring that the voices of those we serve remain at the center of policy decisions.
This year, our Advocacy team advanced significant policy wins to strengthen nutrition security across Connecticut. We secured a landmark $9 million appropriation for the Connecticut Nutrition Assistance Program in the 2026–2027 Biennium Budget—the first substantial increase in more than a decade. Our team also mobilized broad legislative support for HB7021, testifying alongside dozens of advocates and helping to secure more than 50 co‑sponsors.
We deepened relationships with elected officials, state agencies, and executive branch leaders by bringing them directly into communities—visiting Mobile Pantry distributions and agency partners, elevating neighbor voices, and fostering bipartisan collaboration to better serve Connecticut residents.
At the federal level, we met with the full Connecticut delegation in Washington, D.C., advocating for strong investments in TEFAP, SNAP, and CSFP to protect vital nutrition programs. Our President and CEO completed his third and final year as Chair of Feeding America’s Policy Engagement & Advocacy Committee, helping to shape national advocacy priorities that advance nutrition security for our neighbors.
Throughout the year, we worked closely with the Connecticut Foodshare agency network and partner coalitions to elevate nutrition issues as a statewide priority, ensuring that the voices of those we serve remain at the center of policy decisions.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Warehouse
In April 2025, our facility earned an exceptional score of 990 out of 1000 on an independent AIB GMP audit, reflecting Connecticut Foodshare’s strong commitment to food safety. Ensuring the safety of the food entrusted to us is a responsibility we take seriously on behalf of our donors, partners, and the communities we serve.
Warehouse
In April 2025, our facility earned an exceptional score of 990 out of 1000 on an independent AIB GMP audit, reflecting Connecticut Foodshare’s strong commitment to food safety. Ensuring the safety of the food entrusted to us is a responsibility we take seriously on behalf of our donors, partners, and the communities we serve.
TOTAL POUNDS OF FOOD RECEIVED
TOTAL POUNDS OF FOOD SORTED
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Strategy & Community Engagement
This year, the Strategy & Community Engagement team advanced our commitment to ensuring that the voices of neighbors with lived experience of food insecurity guide our work.
We convened neighbors, agency partners, volunteers, and state leaders to inform our new strategic plan and celebrated the graduation of our second Neighbor Council cohort—a group of ten emerging leaders who explored the power of storytelling and advocacy, culminating in a capstone event at the State Capitol.
In partnership with UCONN, we completed a survey of more than 500 neighbors across 17 food pantries to deepen our understanding of food insecurity and the role of food assistance programs in Connecticut.
We also engaged students through fifteen presentations, events, and one‑on‑one sessions, raising awareness of hunger and community solutions.
Additionally, we supported 20 agency partners with training about SWAP (Supporting Wellness at Pantries), strengthening the link between health and food security across the network. Our second Neighbor Council cohort brought together ten members, ages 28 to 80, representing nine communities across Connecticut.
Established to foster a more equitable and informed response to hunger, the Neighborhood Council centers the lived expertise of neighbors in our food bank operations, provides training to support their engagement in public policy and systems change, and elevates their voices to raise public awareness of food insecurity and pathways to ending hunger in our state.
“I'm inspired to be a voice for those who are afraid to speak up for food insecurity.” -Neighbor Council Member
Strategy & Community Engagement
This year, the Strategy & Community Engagement team advanced our commitment to ensuring that the voices of neighbors with lived experience of food insecurity guide our work.
We convened neighbors, agency partners, volunteers, and state leaders to inform our new strategic plan and celebrated the graduation of our second Neighbor Council cohort—a group of ten emerging leaders who explored the power of storytelling and advocacy, culminating in a capstone event at the State Capitol.
In partnership with UCONN, we completed a survey of more than 500 neighbors across 17 food pantries to deepen our understanding of food insecurity and the role of food assistance programs in Connecticut.
We also engaged students through fifteen presentations, events, and one‑on‑one sessions, raising awareness of hunger and community solutions.
Additionally, we supported 20 agency partners with training about SWAP (Supporting Wellness at Pantries), strengthening the link between health and food security across the network. Our second Neighbor Council cohort brought together ten members, ages 28 to 80, representing nine communities across Connecticut.
Established to foster a more equitable and informed response to hunger, the Neighborhood Council centers the lived expertise of neighbors in our food bank operations, provides training to support their engagement in public policy and systems change, and elevates their voices to raise public awareness of food insecurity and pathways to ending hunger in our state.
“I'm inspired to be a voice for those who are afraid to speak up for food insecurity.” -Neighbor Council Member
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Retail Rescue
Retail Rescue
"Retail [rescue] is the backbone of the success of our pantry. Our clients are able to shop for fresh items that may be beyond their economic reach in the stores. The quantity and quality of the food is quite amazing. The unique variety of items make for a better experience and support better health for our clients."
-Second Congregational Church, Manchester
"Retail [rescue] is the backbone of the success of our pantry. Our clients are able to shop for fresh items that may be beyond their economic reach in the stores. The quantity and quality of the food is quite amazing. The unique variety of items make for a better experience and support better health for our clients."
-Second Congregational Church, Manchester
NEW FOOD DONORS ONBOARDED
MILLION POUNDS OF FOOD RESCUED
AGENCY PARTNERS DISTRIBUTED RESCUED FOOD
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Hydroponics
Hydroponics
With two freight farms located at Connecticut Foodshare, our hydroponics farms provide the equivalent of 5 acres of growing space! Inside the units, the lifecycle begins with planting and germination of the seeds in a nursery environment. Once harvested, volunteers pack the produce for distribution to our mobile food pantries and online inventory that is available to agency partners.
"I really appreciate the fresh produce. Fruit and veggies are so expensive in the store. I’m on a fixed income."
With two freight farms located at Connecticut Foodshare, our hydroponics farms provide the equivalent of 5 acres of growing space! Inside the units, the lifecycle begins with planting and germination of the seeds in a nursery environment. Once harvested, volunteers pack the produce for distribution to our mobile food pantries and online inventory that is available to agency partners.
"I really appreciate the fresh produce. Fruit and veggies are so expensive in the store. I’m on a fixed income."
SERVINGS OF FRESH PRODUCE PROVIDED BY OUR OWN HYDROPONIC FARM
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
VISTA Program
Vista Program
Through the AmeriCorps VISTA program, Connecticut Foodshare strengthens organizational and partner capacity by advancing tools, best practices, and systems that support sustainable hunger-relief efforts. We’re proud to be a priority sponsor of this impactful program.
Through this partnership, Connecticut Foodshare strengthened organizational and partner capacity with initiatives designed for lasting impact.
VISTA members advanced on-site partner support by developing a new personalized training program for agency partners, expanded Mobile Pantry capacity through bilingual volunteer training resources and enhanced community outreach, and delivered a successful series of in-person fundraising workshops that equipped partners with practical tools, strategies, and peer connections.
Together, these efforts improved operational effectiveness, strengthened fundraising readiness, and deepened support across our partner network—laying the groundwork for continued growth beyond each VISTA term.
Through the AmeriCorps VISTA program, Connecticut Foodshare strengthens organizational and partner capacity by advancing tools, best practices, and systems that support sustainable hunger-relief efforts. We’re proud to be a priority sponsor of this impactful program.
Through this partnership, Connecticut Foodshare strengthened organizational and partner capacity with initiatives designed for lasting impact.
VISTA members advanced on-site partner support by developing a new personalized training program for agency partners, expanded Mobile Pantry capacity through bilingual volunteer training resources and enhanced community outreach, and delivered a successful series of in-person fundraising workshops that equipped partners with practical tools, strategies, and peer connections.
Together, these efforts improved operational effectiveness, strengthened fundraising readiness, and deepened support across our partner network—laying the groundwork for continued growth beyond each VISTA term.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Data & Impact Team
Data & Impact Team
The Data and Impact team supports Connecticut Foodshare by strengthening the technology, data, and systems that power our work statewide. Through process improvements and data-driven decision-making, the team helps enhance operations, better support partners, and expand our impact across the state.
This year, the team led a laptop redistribution effort that put retired and donated devices back into circulation—directly supporting agency partners instead of scrapping equipment.
From receiving donated devices to restoring and delivering them to agencies, this project earned tremendous appreciation from partners who now have the critical tools they need to better support their communities.
The D&I team also upgraded our mobile food pantry website to have an interactive location finder feature. This gives neighbors Easy access to locations and automatically runs directions through their mapping software on their smart phones.
The Data and Impact team supports Connecticut Foodshare by strengthening the technology, data, and systems that power our work statewide. Through process improvements and data-driven decision-making, the team helps enhance operations, better support partners, and expand our impact across the state.
This year, the team led a laptop redistribution effort that put retired and donated devices back into circulation—directly supporting agency partners instead of scrapping equipment.
From receiving donated devices to restoring and delivering them to agencies, this project earned tremendous appreciation from partners who now have the critical tools they need to better support their communities.
The D&I team also upgraded our mobile food pantry website to have an interactive location finder feature. This gives neighbors Easy access to locations and automatically runs directions through their mapping software on their smart phones.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Network & Program Team
Network & Program Team
In FY25, the Network & Program team supported over 600 food pantry and meal programs who helped get millions of meals worth of food to our neighbors across Connecticut. SNAP Outreach helped more than 2,600 households apply for benefits, giving families access to 1.7 million meals. Our Mobile Pantry program welcomed a new Community Programs Coordinator to oversee the eastern half of the state and a VISTA to work on capacity building within the mobile pantries.
Our Data and Impact team implemented a new mobile pantry location finder, and a lead mobile volunteer shared reflections on the mobile program at our newest signature event, Taste of SoNo.
With another VISTA’s lead, we made improvements to data checks on our state’s distribution of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a food program for seniors, and created a full program manual, continuing strong distribution even after federal cuts.
Summer Food for Kids at Camp Courant fed hundreds of children during school breaks. We offered over 80 submissions of testimony from agency partners to aid in increasing CT-NAP funding; launched year three of the Network Advisory Council; hosted our 2nd Gather Conference for agency partners; and offered training and capacity building support through in-person visits, VISTA-led workshops, 14 webinars, and a new online chat platform.
We welcomed 15 new agency partner food pantries and meal programs to fill gaps in underserved regions. Together, this work helped our partners keep their doors open, meet rising demand, and ensure neighbors were welcomed and supported.
In FY25, the Network & Program team supported over 600 food pantry and meal programs who helped get millions of meals worth of food to our neighbors across Connecticut. SNAP Outreach helped more than 2,600 households apply for benefits, giving families access to 1.7 million meals. Our Mobile Pantry program welcomed a new Community Programs Coordinator to oversee the eastern half of the state and a VISTA to work on capacity building within the mobile pantries.
Our Data and Impact team implemented a new mobile pantry location finder, and a lead mobile volunteer shared reflections on the mobile program at our newest signature event, Taste of SoNo.
With another VISTA’s lead, we made improvements to data checks on our state’s distribution of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a food program for seniors, and created a full program manual, continuing strong distribution even after federal cuts.
Summer Food for Kids at Camp Courant fed hundreds of children during school breaks. We offered over 80 submissions of testimony from agency partners to aid in increasing CT-NAP funding; launched year three of the Network Advisory Council; hosted our 2nd Gather Conference for agency partners; and offered training and capacity building support through in-person visits, VISTA-led workshops, 14 webinars, and a new online chat platform.
We welcomed 15 new agency partner food pantries and meal programs to fill gaps in underserved regions. Together, this work helped our partners keep their doors open, meet rising demand, and ensure neighbors were welcomed and supported.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR TEAM
Engagement & Impact
Engagement & Impact Team
Our donors and supporters bring the Connecticut Foodshare mission to life, and their partnership is central to our work.
This past year we engaged the community through many efforts: hosting Taste of SoNo, a new signature event in Fairfield County; walking with thousands of supporters at our annual Walk Against Hunger; sharing the October Empty Bowls luncheon with the community; hosting planned giving events, online conversations with our CEO, and warehouse and facility tours.
We also welcomed donor feedback which reflected how highly they value our mobile food pantries, getting food to more kids and seniors, and ensuring the food we provide is nutritious. We also welcomed 394 new members of our Sustainer Society! These monthly donors help to sustain our work year-round.
Our donors and supporters bring the Connecticut Foodshare mission to life, and their partnership is central to our work.
This past year we engaged the community through many efforts: hosting Taste of SoNo, a new signature event in Fairfield County; walking with thousands of supporters at our annual Walk Against Hunger; sharing the October Empty Bowls luncheon with the community; hosting planned giving events, online conversations with our CEO, and warehouse and facility tours.
We also welcomed donor feedback which reflected how highly they value our mobile food pantries, getting food to more kids and seniors, and ensuring the food we provide is nutritious. We also welcomed 394 new members of our Sustainer Society! These monthly donors help to sustain our work year-round.
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
Board of Directors
Pete Sannizzaro
Chair of the Board
Alfred D. Watts
Vice Chair of the Board
Heather Smith-Jaser
Treasurer
Arlene Putterman
Secretery
Beth Henry
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Diana Zhang
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Jennifer Barr
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Jered Bruzas
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Joseph Gianni
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Katie Hunlock
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Honorary Board
Craig Anderson
Rep. Brian Becker
Desiree Bartholomew
Mayor Shari Cantor
Beth Costello
Cheryl Chase
Renee DiNino
Rep. William Dyson
Christine Frederick
Harry Garafalo
Scot Haney
Anthony Karlowicz
Mark LaFontaine
Andrea Obston
Rabbi David Small
Thomas Trumble
Dave Urbanik
Jenny Chou
Max Barry
Honorary Board
Craig Anderson
Rep. Brian Becker
Desiree Bartholomew
Mayor Shari Cantor
Beth Costello
Cheryl Chase
Renee DiNino
Rep. William Dyson
Christine Frederick
Harry Garafalo
Scot Haney
Anthony Karlowicz
Mark LaFontaine
Andrea Obston
Rabbi David Small
Thomas Trumble
Dave Urbanik
Jenny Chou
Max Barry
ANNUAL REPORT 2024-2025
Financials
This year, our team continued to strengthen engagement, expand our impact, and build meaningful connections in our community. We’re proud of the progress made this year—and excited to carry this momentum forward!
Revenue
Expenses
Assets & Liabilities
Our vision is a thriving community free of hunger.
