'More important than ever:' Hunger Task Force kicks off virtual Food for Families holiday campaign

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – The Hunger Task Force kicked off its annual Food for Families holiday campaign on Thursday, October 1.

Like many things during the COVID-19 pandemic, the campaign is switching to an all virtual format.

The @hungertaskforce is kicking off its annual Food for Families holiday campaign today. This year, HTF is asking people to donate online by purchasing a variety of food items. Campaign runs through Dec. 31. Give here: https://t.co/CUa9ZOqAlB@CBS58pic.twitter.com/ka4kXbi342

— Emily Thornton (@EmilyThorntonTV) October 1, 2020

Usually for the campaign, food drives would be held across the area at schools or business, now the Hunger Task Force is asking people to solely donate online.

The organization says in the last fiscal year which ended on September 30, it has distributed 13 million pounds of food. Their average is usually around eight or nine million.

Right now, Hunger Task Force is serving around 50,000 people per month. Around 25,000 are children.

The Food for Families virtual campaign will allow for people to buy various items like a turkey, vegetables or even an entire holiday meal for those in need.

"For so many families and seniors that are out there, they’re going to need our help, they’re going to want a turkey on the table at Thanksgiving, so it’s important people go online and get that turkey," Hunger Task Force Executive Director Sherrie Tussler said.

They are encouraging companies or groups to organize virtual campaigns to benefit the drive.

"With regard to the health and economic crisis that we find ourselves in, now it’s even more important than ever that those who can, we step up," Johnson Controls VP of Public Affairs Grady Crosby said.

The campaign runs through December 31.

More information can be found on the Hunger Task Force’s website.