Salamanca Press, 12/5/24
WEST VALLEY — The workforce at the West Valley Demonstration Project (WVDP) completed its annual food drive as part of its continued commitment to the community this holiday season.
This year, the food drive collected over 9,000 meals — enough to provide turkeys, holiday items and staples for nine area food pantries.
“This annual tradition began in 1989 and has continued to help those in need throughout the community,” said Joseph Pillittere, CH2M HILL BWXT West Valley (CHBWV) Food Drive Coordinator. “In total, the WVDP Food Drive has collected more than 2.4 million pounds of food since its inception.”
On a day off in November, more than 30 volunteers helped deliver 531 cases of food and 180 turkeys to the following food pantries: Fellowship Hill Ministries in Springville, Delevan Methodist Church, Catholic Charities Outreach in Franklinville, Saving Grace OutReach in Cattaraugus, Master’s Plan in Dayton, United Church of Christ in Ellicottville, Concord Food Pantry, Little Valley Baptist Church and West Valley Food Pantry.
“It comes down to one thing that makes this food drive successful — the generosity of our employees, partners and subcontractors,” said Jason Casper, CHBWV President. “It demonstrates the positive impact that kindness can have on a community.”
CHBWV officials extended special thanks to the following employees and members of supporting businesses and organizations: CHBWV, U.S. Department of Energy, and New York State Energy Research & Development Authority employees; International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Lodge 2401; American DND; MJW Corporation; Hanes Supplies; Encorus Group Engineering; InTomes; Sander’s Parkview Supermarket; and Nature’s Pride.
Every year during the holiday season, resources get spread thin and the needs of our community increase. Community support from the WVDP Food Drive helps to meet those needs that may have gone unmet during the holiday season.