Milk is one of the most-requested nutrition staples at Feeding America food banks, but facilities are only able to provide the equivalent of less than one gallon of milk per person each year. California’s dairy families donated to the Great American Milk Drive with a $100,000 Feeding America check.

“On behalf of Feeding America-affiliated food banks throughout California, we are happy to accept this check from the California Milk Advisory Board that represents the equivalent of 20,000 gallons of milk for families in need,” said Suzan Bateson, Executive Director of Alameda County Community Food Bank and board chair of the California Association of Food Banks. “Providing wholesome, nutritious milk is important to our clients’ health, particularly children and seniors – our clients who are often most vulnerable to hunger. These donations are critical for us, especially during the holidays, and we appreciate the efforts of California dairy families to provide milk vouchers through the New Year, when donations tend to taper off.”

“Making sure all people – regardless of their circumstances – have access to healthy food options like milk is very important to California’s more than 1,400 dairy farm families. Through the Great American Milk Drive, we’re bringing fresh milk in the format of vouchers to needy families throughout the state,” said John Talbot, CEO of the California Milk Advisory Board. “This time of year, when our thoughts turn to charity, we hope this effort will inspire consumers to think how far just $5 can go in providing nutritious food to members of their community.”

While milk is one of the top nutritious items requested by food bank clients, it is rarely donated. The Great American Milk Drive campaign – a partnership between Feeding America, milk companies and dairy farmers – seeks to secure nutrient-rich milk for hungry families. For as little as $5, people can donate online to the Great American Milk Drive at www.MilkLife.com/Give and provide a family in-need with one gallon of wholesome milk.