Appeal: Together, We Deliver Hope

Dear Friends of FOCUS,

Warm greetings during this season of gratitude and generosity. At this time of year, when so many appeals arrive in your inbox or mailbox, I want to show you the impact you make and why your support is needed today.

You Create Warmth, Dignity, and Hope

More than 140 neighbors recently came through the doors of our Breakfast Club. Many are living outside or struggling to find stable housing. They arrive cold and tired. Inside, they find warmth, a hot meal, and a community that sees them as people with dignity and worth. For many, this is the only hot meal they will have that day.

Your Support Feeds Families All Week Long

Our pantry at Emmanuel Baptist Church continues to be a dependable source of healthy groceries when families are facing rising costs and less support. One guest shared:

“I love your produce, it's always so fresh and the staff are always so nice” — Cordelia K., Pantry Guest

Your Generosity Reaches Farther Than You May Realize

Did you know that FOCUS helps support six other local pantries? Through a New York State grant, FOCUS shares funds that allow these pantries to purchase nutritious, New York State-sourced food, milk, and produce for their own neighborhoods.

When you give to FOCUS, your generosity does more than supply one pantry. You strengthen a network of neighbors helping neighbors across Albany.

The Need Is Growing and Your Support Is Critical

Federal changes to food assistance programs, combined with rising food costs and uncertainty around future support, mean that many partners have less food to share. We expect even more neighbors to turn to FOCUS in the coming months. Your gift provides the foundation that allows us to respond quickly and compassionately.

You Make Community Possible

It’s not just meals and groceries. It is the community you help build. You make it possible for someone to walk into FOCUS and feel welcomed, respected, and supported. You are the reason a neighbor can face the week with a little more hope.

Your Gift Today Will Make an Immediate Difference

This season, I invite you to continue that generosity in a way that has real impact. Your gift right now will ensure that every neighbor who turns to FOCUS can count on a warm meal, a full pantry, and a caring community.

Make your gift today on our DONATE page or mail it to the office at 275 State St, Albany, NY 12210. Your support brings stability and relief to neighbors facing hardship.

In gratitude,

Rev. Chris Vande Bunte, Board President

Keith Leahey, Executive Director

P.S. A gift today helps us meet growing needs through the winter and beyond.