From Volunteers to First Responders, Community Drives Comfort Food Community’s 2026 “Give Hunger the Boot” Campaign

This spring, Comfort Food Community (CFC) launches its 2026 Give Hunger the Boot campaign, marking 12 years of grassroots efforts to combat rural hunger throughout Washington, Warren, Saratoga, and Rensselaer Counties.  

Since its inception, Give Hunger the Boot has been powered by the community—a spirit that remains at the core of both the campaign and CFC’s mission. Each year, residents, volunteers, local businesses, and first responders come together in a shared effort to combat rural hunger. 

Scout Troop 27 of Greenwich has been involved since the beginning, making and painting the iconic Give Hunger the Boot sign that is displayed in the Veteran's Memorial Park throughout the campaign.  

“We have seen the program grow from a room in St Josephs Hall to the current operational setup with multiple pantries and the food hub servicing so much more than just the town of Greenwich,” said Jeff Conkey, Scoutmaster of Troop 27. “Seeing the Give Hunger the Boot campaign be such an important source of funding for everything that CFC offers is a wonderful testament to the generosity of our community and the local businesses and organizations that participate year-round to support those in need.”  

Running from May 4 to June 9, the month-long campaign aims to raise $30,000 to support expanded food access for neighbors facing food insecurity. Funds raised will help provide fresh, nutritious food to individuals and families, strengthen food recovery efforts that reduce waste, and sustain programs that connect community members to reliable, dignified sources of nourishment. This campaign also helps sustain our day-to-day operations—ensuring we can continue providing food to those who need it most. 

The campaign kicks off with Cow Pie Bingo on Friday, May 8 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Tiashoke Farm, Store & More in Schaghticoke, NY. Held as part of the “Friday on Route 40 Market Festival,” the event will feature local farmers, artisans, live music, food, and craft cocktails—creating an opportunity for community members to gather while supporting a meaningful cause. Attendees can purchase bingo squares for a chance to win a $500 grand prize. 

On Saturday, May 16, we will host a BBQ Bonanza. Pre-order a delicious pulled pork meal—complete with sides and a sweet treat—prepared by Eat Meat BBQ, and pick it up at the Greenwich Food Pantry between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.  

Throughout the campaign, local businesses will participate by hosting donation boots and jars at

their counters, making it easy for community members to contribute in small but impactful ways. 

The campaign ends with the annual coin drop on Saturday, June 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in downtown Greenwich. Volunteers—including members of the Greenwich, Middle Falls, and Cossayuna fire departments—will line the streets to collect donations, demonstrating the collective commitment of the community to ensure no neighbor goes hungry. 

Together, these efforts highlight the power of local action—where small contributions, shared time, and community spirit come together to create lasting impact for thousands of individuals and families across the region. 

For those wishing to participate, learn more about donation sites, purchase Cow Pie Bingo squares or make a contribution, please visit www.comfortfoodcommunity.org/give-hunger-the-boot. 

A special thank you to Salem Farm Supply, Inc for sponsoring us and helping us give hunger the boot!