In 2020, part of our response to the Covid-19 pandemic was the Feeding Force Project. We purchased produce from small farming groups and dried fish from coastal communities at fair prices. These groups had lost access to markets because of Covid restrictions. Along with Mingo Meals, we distributed this food to city dwellers who had lost their jobs. In 2020, P500 sponsored 5-6kg of vegetables, 500g of dried fish, 3kg of rice and 15 Mingo Meals. We purchased the vegetables from small farmers and dried fish from small fishermen.
Because of the ongoing energy crisis, we decided to revive the Feeding Force Project. This time, we are focusing on vulnerable communities whose incomes have been compromised by the energy crisis. At today’s prices, P500 provides a family with 3kg rice, 5kg of assorted fresh produce, 1 pack of dried fish and 10 Mingo Meals. Just as we did in 2020, we purchase our produce from small farmers and fishermen.
April 9 is Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), a national holiday in the Philippines. It commemorates the sacrifice of men and women who have fought bravely to save the Philippines, especially those who defended Bataan during WWII. While we are not soldiers, we can do little things to protect our country and our fellowmen. So, on April 9 this year, eight staff members of NVC kicked off Feeding Force 2026. 36 volunteers helped out. That day, we distributed 1,225kg of farm and sea produce plus 2,000 Mingo Meals to 200 jeepney drivers.
Just like w died in 2020, we paid our suppliers fairly for their produce and catch. However, two farming groups insisted on donating produce to this cause. These groups chose to do so in exchange for the help we gave them after Typhoon Tino. They sent us jackfruit, squash, baguio beans, okra, and pechay free of charge! Thank you to the Brgy. Bacong Farmers Association and Mailum Organic Village Association for your generous gift of love!
On April 15, we announced that we had enough funds to cover another round of food distribution. This time, we supported a fishing community. On April 23, staff members and volunteers distributed food to 197 families of fisherfolk. We gave out 873kg of produce from farmers and fishermen as well as 2,000 Mingo Meals. In addition to what we normally distribute, we also handed each family a loaf of fresh bread. This gift of love came from someone all the way in New York! The donor’s relatives in town delivered the bread personally delivered the bread to our office.
Fortunately, we received the resources for another round of food distribution on May 5. Our thanks to Kap. John Derek Geolingo and the barangay council of Brgy. Miranda, Hinigaran, Negros Occidental for providing the venue.
Would you like to help a family in need? Please contact us at [email protected]
