WCVB and the Greater Boston Food Bank raised $3 million in a week for families impacted financially by the coronavirus pandemic. It is an unprecedented amount for the organization.
In its first day, on April 27, the campaign brought in $1.6 million, initiated by a $250,000 grant from the Hearst Foundations, a separate entity from WCVB’s parent company.
The virtual fundraiser called Project CommUNITY: 5 x 5 Food Drive has brought in enough money to pay for more than $9 million worth of meals.
“Every donation makes an enormous difference in the lives of those who are currently trying to put food on the table. We’re extremely grateful for the extraordinary generosity of all those who have contributed to the success of the 5 X 5 Food Drive during this challenging time,” said Bill Fine, WCVB president and general manager. “The Greater Boston Food Bank works tirelessly in the fight against hunger and as their longtime partner, Channel 5 is honored to join with them at this time of great need.”
The station put together messages from anchors and reporters to encourage donations. National special guests included ABC News journalists, WCVB alumni David Muir and Martha Raddatz, and entertainment celebrities including Dancing With The Stars host Tom Bergeron, A Million Little Things creator D.J. Nash and TV-film actor Kevin Chapman.
In a statement, the fundraiser was described as “an ongoing public service initiative that focuses on making a difference and giving back to the local community, a mission that has taken on a heightened sense of urgency. WCVB, Boston’s News and Community Leader, has been a long-time partner of the Greater Boston Food Bank and is honored to again help replenish the food bank’s resources and help those in need.”