Senator Tony Hwang Leads Call to Action: “Now More Than Ever, Our Neighbors Need Us”

Operation Hope, Sacred Heart University Community Theatre & Children’s Musician Laurie Berkner Partner for Thanksgiving Food & Fund Drive Amid Ongoing Food Insecurity

FAIRFIELD, CT — With food insecurity surging across Connecticut and the holiday season fast approaching, State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) is urging residents, businesses, and community organizations to step forward and support a special Thanksgiving Food & Fund Drive benefiting Operation Hope and families struggling to meet basic nutrition needs.

The drive will take place Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Sacred Heart University’s Community Theatre (1420 Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824), in partnership with Operation Hope and featuring a family performance by nationally renowned children’s musician Laurie Berkner. The initiative revives a Thanksgiving tradition Senator Hwang launched 14 years ago, reaffirming the community’s long-standing commitment to helping neighbors in need.

“The federal shutdown may have ended and SNAP benefits may be restarting, but the hunger crisis has not stopped. In fact, the need has become more urgent,” Senator Hwang said. “As we enter a season centered on gratitude, family gatherings, and the comfort of a shared meal, we cannot ignore the reality that thousands of Connecticut residents are facing empty cupboards and impossible choices. Now is the time to come together, with compassion and purpose, to help lift our neighbors.”

Senator Hwang stressed that cash donations have the greatest impact, enabling Operation Hope and Connecticut Foodshare to stretch every dollar, purchase in bulk, and respond to targeted needs. “This is compassionate giving aligned with fiscal responsibility,” he said. “Every dollar goes directly to helping families in Fairfield and across the region.”

Jason Jakubowski, President & CEO of Connecticut Foodshare, highlighted the growing strain on food banks statewide: “Hunger doesn’t pause just because a shutdown ends. Our demand has doubled in many areas, and SNAP interruptions left thousands of families at risk. Until full benefits are restored, we are in a true crisis and we need the community’s help.”

Carla Miklos, Executive Director of Operation Hope, echoed the urgency: “We are seeing nearly a 20% increase in households turning to us and what we’re providing is no longer supplemental; it is essential. Families depend on this food for survival. Community support is critical.”

Senator Hwang thanked Sacred Heart University for once again opening the doors of the historic Community Theatre. “Their generosity combined with Laurie Berkner’s participation — shows what is possible when arts, education, and public service work together.”

Residents are encouraged to donate food, funds, or time to ensure no family is left behind this holiday season.