As Prince George’s County faces record-high food insecurity rates, approaching 50%, Council Chair Edward Burroughs III (District 8) is launching a twice weekly free healthy food distribution program for 1,000 families in District 8. Families will be supported through the program for one year.
The District 8 Healthy Families Program, in partnership with The StoreHouse and Victory Church International, will kick off on Saturday, July 12, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at Thurgood Marshall Middle School, 4909 Brinkley Road, Camp Springs, MD 20748. Members of the media are welcome to attend.
Food insecurity in Prince George’s County is at an all-time high, with thousands of families struggling to put meals on the table and a growing number of residents impacted by federal workforce reductions. In addition, chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension account for more than 60% of deaths in the county, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive health interventions.
“This program is unique in that families in need can rely on having access to fresh and healthy food for a full year,” said Chair Burroughs. “So many Prince Georgians are facing financial uncertainty, and by providing this consistent support, we are not just offering meals, but empowering families to build a healthier future.”
Food distributions will take place via drive-thru pickup on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month. Participants are District 8 residents who pre-registered to join the year-long program.
The StoreHouse is the nation's first Black-run food bank, founded on the belief that fresh is best, providing nutritious, high-quality food with love and care.
“Access to fresh, nutritious food is one of the most powerful tools we have for building healthier communities. I am honored to be working with Chair Burroughs to provide residents of Prince George’s County with fresh foods,” said Mel Johnson, founder of The StoreHouse. “By providing these essential foods today, we’re not just feeding families, we are investing in our community’s health and future.”
“With a 32-year legacy, Victory Church International has been a beacon of hope in the local community and beyond, dedicated to spreading the transformative compassion and care of Jesus Christ,” said Rev. Kue Lattimore-Williams, Esq., Senior Pastor at Victory Church International. "As we come together in partnership with Chair Burroughs and The Storehouse, we are not just distributing food, we are sharing hope and transforming lives, proving that love in action knows no bounds."