First multi-generational anti-hunger conference set May 4 in Wilmington

Hundreds of anti-hunger advocates will gather Monday, May 4, at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in Wilmington as part of Delaware’s first multi-generational anti-hunger conference.

The conference, presented by the Food Bank of Delaware, Brae’s Brown Bags and the Food Research and Action Center, is titled "Coming Together: A Community Response to Hunger" to reflect that it takes everyone, including children, adults, nonprofits, government entities, businesses, faith-based organizations, educational institutions and others, working together to end hunger in our communities.

“What started as a gathering of local anti-hunger advocates two years ago, has grown into a conference where real community change is happening,” said Food Bank of Delaware President and CEO Patricia Beebe. “As a result of past conferences, we have made great strides to increase participation in school breakfast, action to increase the amount of fresh produce for low-income Delawareans and more. With the inclusion of children in this year’s conference, we know we can all work together, regardless of age, to make meaningful change.”

The all-day conference will feature programming for both adults and children. The morning political town hall will feature state legislators and GOP State Chairman Charlie Copeland. The town hall will feature hunger and poverty-related questions from school-aged children representing Delaware’s three counties.

At the conclusion of the political town hall, kids will be dismissed to their own programming focused on healthy eating, fitness, the legislative process, food insecurity, gardening and food waste and more.

“I think want I want most out of the conference is for kids to think about what it really means to be hungry,” said 11-year-old Braeden Mannering, founder of Brae’s Brown Bags. “I want them to imagine how it feels and how we can fix it if we all work together. For me it is to help all people have a chance to eat healthy. I hope the conference will inspire others kids to get involved.”

The morning will also feature a children’s nutrition panel for adults with representatives from USDA, the Harry K Foundation, Delaware Department of Education, Share Our Strength, New York City Coalition Against Hunger and the Food Research and Action Center. At that time, the Food Bank of Delaware will also announce the winners of its first-ever school breakfast challenge.

Dr. Sandra Hassink, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, will provide keynote remarks during the lunchtime hour. Afternoon breakout sessions will focus on military families and veterans, workforce development and agriculture.

Registration is $40/person and includes a continental breakfast and lunch; price increases by $10 after April 17. Complete panel descriptions and speakers, registration and more information can be found at www.fbd.org/comingtogether.