Maximizing Community Impact: What Give Local 757 Donations Will Do for Our Region
Every year, thousands of local residents come together to make a difference in the Hampton Roads community through Give Local 757. This collaborative giving event, organized by the Peninsula Community Foundation, taps into the strength of collective generosity to support local nonprofit fundraising. This year’s event was no exception, as our community raised an impressive $1,416,836 to uplift and empower 232 local organizations, including the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
During the annual day of giving in 2025, the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore saw an outpouring of kindness and support. We reached ninth on the Give Local 757 leaderboard, raising an incredible $64,289 thanks to the generosity of 220 donors and a matching donation from our partners at Rick Hendrick Chevrolet. After 24 hours, the Foodbank also had the second-highest total donation amount out of all 232 organizations!
This blog celebrates this year’s impact of Give Local 757, provides insight on how the Foodbank is planning on utilizing donations, and highlights the generosity of our community, with tips on how you can support us year-round.
The Power of Giving Local
What Is Give Local 757?
Give Local 757 is the region’s largest 24-hour fundraising event, created to inspire philanthropy and strengthen local nonprofits. Each year, this event brings together residents, businesses, and organizations across Hampton Roads to raise unrestricted funds for causes that directly impact our community.
Since its inception in 2014, Give Local 757 has united more than 110,000 donors to raise a staggering $12.6 million for hundreds of nonprofits. This event is about more than just numbers, it’s about fostering a culture of giving where every contribution counts, no matter how big or small.
Supporting Local Charities
The true beauty of Give Local 757 is its ability to make a tangible impact where it’s needed most. From providing food security to expanding education and creating access to healthcare, donors directly influence local organizations that are changing lives every day.
Collective giving empowers nonprofits like the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore to achieve their goals more efficiently, providing critical resources to individuals and families in need. Dedicated to fighting food insecurity, the Foodbank works tirelessly to support underserved communities and create a lasting impact.
Why Collective Giving Matters
By supporting local charities, you’re investing in your neighbors, our community, and our shared future. Every dollar donated goes toward programs that support children, adults, families, veterans, and seniors. Through events like Give Local 757, we’re reminded that real change starts at home, and it’s possible when everyone comes together with a shared purpose.
Supporting the Foodbank During Give Local 757
When you choose to support the Foodbank during Give Local 757, you’re providing more than just food – you’re offering hope, dignity, and stability to those facing hunger in our community. Your contributions during this important campaign will help expand critical programs, ensuring children have enough to eat, seniors are cared for, and families can focus on rebuilding their lives.
How the Foodbank Will Use Your Donations
Your contributions to the Foodbank as part of Give Local 757 directly support initiatives designed to fight hunger and make nutritious food more accessible:
Mobile Pantry Programs: Donations help to deliver fresh produce and essential groceries directly to underserved neighborhoods, including rural areas and food deserts.
Community Food Hubs: Contributions help these hubs provide a dependable source of fresh fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples, while also fostering a sense of community and dignity.
Healthy Meals for Neighbors in Need: The Foodbank prioritizes distributing healthy, nutrient-rich foods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, in every box of groceries shared with families.
Specialized Support for Vulnerable Populations:
Youth-focused programs like the BackPack Program and Kids Cafe provide nutritious food to children when free school meals aren’t available.
Seniors benefit from targeted programs, such as the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, that offer resources and education designed to meet their unique dietary and health needs.
Lasting Impact Beyond One Day
A Launchpad for Year-Round Support
While Give Local 757 is a powerful rallying cry for one day, its impact resonates throughout the year. The funds raised serve as a vital foundation for ongoing initiatives, helping the Foodbank continue our work well beyond the giving day. Your participation ensures that nonprofits like us can plan and execute programs with greater stability and confidence.
The Importance of Sustainable Giving
The truth is, hunger and need don’t take a day off. That’s why it’s critical to think beyond this one-day event and consider how you can make an ongoing impact. Sustainable giving allows us to effectively tackle challenges year-round, ensuring consistent support for our most vulnerable neighbors.
Ways to Stay Engaged
Your contributions to Give Local 757 were just the beginning. Here are a few ways you can continue supporting local charities and building a stronger community:
1. Make a Recurring Donation
Consider setting up a monthly food bank donation to provide year-round support. Even $10 a month can make a huge difference over time.
2. Host a Local Fundraiser
Organize a food drive or fundraiser within your workplace, school, or community group to further amplify your impact.
3. Volunteer Your Time
The Foodbank relies on dedicated volunteers to drive our mission forward. Whether it’s sorting food in the warehouse or assisting with mobile distributions, your time is invaluable.
4. Spread the Word
Share the mission of Give Local 757 and the Foodbank with your family, friends, and colleagues. Encourage them to get involved, whether through donations or volunteer work.
5. Follow & Engage on Social Media
Stay connected through social media channels to learn about upcoming events, success stories, and additional ways to help. Follow us: @FoodbankSEVA
Building a Stronger Future Together
The overwhelming generosity displayed during Give Local 757 is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community. By supporting local charities like the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, you’ve helped create opportunities for your neighbors, providing them with the resources they need to thrive.
Our work doesn’t end here. We encourage you to keep the momentum going by staying engaged and finding new ways to support local nonprofit fundraising efforts. Together, we can continue to feed change and make a lasting impact in Hampton Roads.
Want to learn more about how you can support the Foodbank’s efforts? Visit foodbankonline.org and discover how you can help today.