Philadelphia – In a powerful display of community partnership, the Tri‑State Toyota Dealers Association brought its 17th annual “Haul Away Hunger” food drive to Citizens Bank Park on Wednesday. A convoy of 84 Toyota Tundra trucks stretched roughly seven football fields as it rolled into the stadium, carrying 345,000 pounds of donated food.
Local nonprofits receive a massive boost
The trucks were quickly off‑loaded into waiting Philabundance trailers. Pallets of non‑perishable items will be sorted and distributed to families throughout the region, creating an estimated 295,000 meals – an increase of 60,000 meals compared with last year’s donation.
“With recent SNAP changes and Federal policy changes we are seeing that need continue to increase,” said Dorothy Wong, a spokesperson for Philabundance. “One in eight Philadelphians faces food insecurity, and this mission helps us reach more neighbors in need.”
Dealers reaffirm commitment to hunger relief
Paul Muller, president of the Tri‑State Toyota Dealers Association, emphasized that the annual drive reflects a long‑term commitment to the community. “It’s a 365‑day‑a‑year problem. We obviously can’t solve it all, but we’re doing the best we can to help out where we can,” he said.
Philabundance CEO Loree Jones Brown added, “Every contribution matters – $5, $10, a box of food… we could really use your help.” The organization encourages residents to continue supporting the effort through donations, volunteer time, or monetary gifts.
Local media and partners support the cause
6abc and streaming service Hulu are listed as supporters of the food drive, helping to raise awareness and encourage broader participation. The station’s coverage highlighted the scale of the effort, noting that the caravan’s arrival was captured by a helicopter, underscoring the magnitude of the logistical operation.
Community leaders and volunteers gathered at the park to witness the off‑loading, reinforcing the message that tackling hunger is a shared responsibility. The event serves as a reminder that, despite economic challenges, local businesses and nonprofit groups can unite to make a tangible difference for families in need.
Looking ahead
Philabundance plans to distribute the food throughout the coming weeks, targeting neighborhoods with the highest rates of food insecurity. The organization also hopes the visibility of the drive will inspire additional contributions from other businesses and individuals across the city.
As the holiday season approaches, the partnership between Toyota dealers, Philabundance, and local media illustrates how faith‑based values, traditional family support, and individual liberty to give can combine to strengthen the fabric of the community.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
