"Being in the hospitality industry, it comes naturally to restaurants and their vendors and suppliers to give back to the communities we serve," says William C. Anton, FMP, convention chairman for NRA Show 2008, and chairman and founder of Anton Airfood Inc. "The food collected from the NRA Show–the largest international trade show for the foodservice and hospitality industry–made a tangible difference in the lives of those in need."
"We are so thankful for the National Restaurant Association's commitment to fighting hunger in our community," says Kate Maehr, executive director of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. "This donation has put food on the table for many individuals and families who are facing the challenges of rising fuel and food costs."
The donated food was distributed through a network of more than 600 qualified GCFD member agencies, which include pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, day care centers, and senior living facilities. Additional food was distributed to other Chicago area food banks.
The Greater Chicago Food Depository is a not-for-profit food distribution and training center providing food for the hungry in its community. The GCFD distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 600 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters to almost a half-million adults and children every year.
NRA Show 2009 will be held May 16-19, at McCormick Place in Chicago. The 2009 International Wine, Spirits & Beer Event will be held in conjunction with NRA Show 2009.
