CHOW celebrates 50 years of fighting hunger with 44th annual CHOW Fest

JOHNSON CITY, N.Y. (WBNG) — The Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse invites the Broome County community not only to celebrate its 50th birthday, but to recognize decades of county efforts.

The 44th Annual CHOW Fest is set for Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Oakdale Commons from noon to 3 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to meet with organizers at the mall’s Center Court.

The event raises awareness and funds for Binghamton-area hunger relief.

“We wouldn’t be here for 50 years if it hadn’t been for the community support,” said CHOW Director Les Aylesworth. “You know, I often mention this: CHOW stands for the Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse. That community component is key to why we do what we do, how we do what we do and what we’re trying to impact. Community is key, and so we want to celebrate with them.”

This year, organizers are emphasizing the importance of combating food insecurity after recent federal SNAP changes and food price increases.

“The need for food access in the community is greater than ever before, especially with a lot of the SNAP cuts that we’re seeing from the federal level,” said Broome County Executive Jason Garnar. “CHOW’s been right there to help people in our community for 50 years.”

Garnar also explained how CHOW has become involved with the community, including working with county officials to obtain donations during Broome Bands Together and concert nights.

“We just think they’re a wonderful organization. On October third, we’re going to make it CHOW Day in Broome County for everything that they’ve done,” Garnar said.

The event will feature something for everyone, with several family-friendly activities:

• Face painting
• Crafts
• Live music
• Food and treats
• Raffles
• Chick-fil-A gift card giveaways and more

“We know this community is struggling. And so, the work that we do is super important. You know, we believe in it. We know the community has believed in it for 50 years. It’s our 50th anniversary year. We’re here to announce that we’re doing it and invite the whole community to come,” Aylesworth said.

For CHOW Fest updates and information, visit CHOW’s Facebook page.