Volunteers Help United Community's Food Pantry With Repairs In Route 1 Corridor

HYBLA VALLEY, VA — As use of a Richmond Highway corridor's food pantry increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was in need of a facelift. Volunteers recently stepped in to help.

Volunteers from MGM National Harbor recently helped paint the food pantry at nonprofit United Community's main office. The volunteer work helped United Community at a time when it is renovating and expanding its food pantry.

"Our pantry has seen much wear and tear throughout the pandemic while we have worked to meet our community’s needs and we are so grateful for MGM’s support in renovating and expanding our facility," said Margaret Cartier, chief development officer at United Community.

Other companies' employees have also stepped in to help United Community's food pantry renovations, including Balfour Beatty, Lafayette Federal Credit Union and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.

United Community had reported a 300 percent increase in demand for food as the COVID-19 pandemic started. Food demand has remained, especially as inflation has put a strain on families in need.

The nonprofit's Cynthia Hull Food Pantry at 7511 Fordson Rd., Alexandria, VA, provides food staples like canned goods, fresh produce, eggs, meat, and other food weekly to people in need. Other distributions are held at various community locations. United Community focuses on addressing poverty in southeastern Fairfax County with its food assistance and other programs.

MGM National Harbor works with charitable organizations addressing hunger and other issues. Since the hotel and casino opened over six years ago, MGM National Harbor employees have provided nearly 25,000 community volunteer hours.

"MGM National Harbor is committed to making a difference in crucial areas such as hunger relief, education, workforce development, as well as diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives," said Starlet Hunter, MGM National Harbor's director of community engagement. "Our partnership with United Community is a natural progression of MGM’s philanthropic partnership and dedication to supporting our mission through volunteerism and financial contributions."