Putting healthy meals into every backpack

CHOP Out Hunger serves more than 50,000 students weekly across 21 counties in Pennsylvania through innovative outreach partnerships, reaching many of the same communities that Gannon insures.

CHOP Out Hunger began when the organization’s founder, Dani Ruhf, learned from her daughter that if fellow classmates didn’t have lunch money, they didn’t eat. She took action and created a backpack program and in-school pantries to offer accessible and discreet ways for students to receive needed food. Now the Gannon Associates Insurance team rolls up their sleeves year-round to volunteer, donate, and sponsor with CHOP Out Hunger. Historically the nonprofit has benefitted from the agency’s referral program, where they turn client business referrals into meaningful contributions. Each year, the staff packs nutritious food bags, ensuring that local children have access to essential meals over the weekends – their most recent event packed over 500 bags!

“Like Gannon Associates Insurance, Child Hunger Outreach Program (CHOP Out Hunger) started as a small operation in Towanda, PA, driven by a mission to help others. By supporting CHOP Out Hunger, we’re not just filling stomachs; we’re nurturing futures,” says Kali Grove, marketing manager, Gannon Associates Insurance. “We are committed to ensuring that no child goes without food, and it’s inspiring to see our entire agency pitch in.”

A $10,000 Make More Happen Award would feed 10,000 children for a week, providing nutritious meals to children who might otherwise go hungry outside of school. The donation also would support CHOP’s efforts to expand into more schools and communities. Vote for Gannon Associates Insurance to help turn the vision of a hunger-free generation into reality—show your support!