The Westchester Coalition For The Hungry & Homeless, Inc. is a Corporation composed of autonomous food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and individuals interested in alleviating hunger and homelessness in our region. We were incorporated in 1988, when only 49 emergency food providers were operating, and obtained our tax-exempt status as a nonprofit organization. As of March, 2008, our constituency is composed of more than 200,000 persons living at or below the poverty level in Westchester, who cannot afford both food and housing costs. Many of these individuals are of the working poor, whose wages still leave them in poverty. In addition to the original population served more and more persons who have recently lost jobs because of the recession are being seen at the agencies on a regular basis. Based on the statistics provided by our member agencies at least 50% of those served are young children.

The Coalition is now comprised of 141 direct service food providers throughout the country who come together to work towards easing and eventually eliminating hunger in our area. At present there are 72 food pantries, 38 soup kitchens, and 31 shelters - a number which is increasing every year due to the growing number of people living in poverty in the County.

Our member agencies rely heavily on volunteers to carry out their work. Were it not for volunteers, who provide funds, food, and time, most of them would be unable to function. The communities in which they operate are also supportive; churches, synagogues and other community facilities are used to house pantries and kitchens. Civic groups are the source of food and volunteers. Much of the food is distributed to pantries and kitchens by The Food Bank of Westchester, which was founded by the Coalition.

In addition to serving as a clearinghouse which facilitates communication between programs, government agencies, news media, and individuals on hunger, homelessness, and related issues, we solicit and disburse funds to our members, obtained from government and private agencies, as well as from corporations and individuals. These funds are a vital source of income for food and operating expenses.