Johns Hopkins donates $50,000 to local food banks

Johns Hopkins University and the Johns Hopkins Health System have made a joint contribution of $50,000 to the United Way of Central Maryland, a nonprofit serving the greater Baltimore area, to support the Maryland Food Bank and the Capital Area Food Bank. The funds will help address food insecurity across the region during the holiday season and in the wake of the recent government shutdown, which included the interruption of food-assistance benefits for low-income households and saw many government workers in the area furloughed for nearly a month and a half.

The contribution reflects the institution's shared commitment to the communities it serves, said Maria Harris Tildon, vice president for government, community, and economic partnerships at Johns Hopkins.

"Supporting the Maryland Food Bank and the Capital Area Food Bank through our partnership with the United Way advances our core mission here at Hopkins to care for and serve our community," Tildon said. "At moments like these, community support becomes even more essential. Our contribution helps sustain the vital work of the food banks and reinforces the message that no one should face uncertainty alone."

Added Alicia Wilson, vice president for civic engagement and opportunity: "This partnership with United Way reflects a mutual commitment to enhancing community well-being. By supporting the Maryland Food Bank and the Capital Area Food Bank, we are helping more families across our region feel seen, supported, and uplifted."

This contribution is made alongside the university's annual United Way giving campaign, in which faculty and staff give back through donations and voluntary payroll deductions. Last year, employees across the institution raised $481,000 for their communities.

According to Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of the United Way of Central Maryland, the university and health system's annual contributions have a tangible effect on the state.

"Because of our partnership with Johns Hopkins, essential resources are reaching our neighbors in need through the Maryland Food Bank and Capital Area Food," he said. "Johns Hopkins' support is playing a key role in strengthening our community when it's needed most. We are truly grateful for Johns Hopkins' ongoing commitment to the well-being of our community and for the continued partnership in this important work."

Donations are still being accepted for JHU's 2025 United Way giving campaign. Staff and faculty who are able to donate $100 or more can designate their gift to specific nonprofits.

Employees at participating sites can also contribute to this year's food drive benefiting the Maryland Food Bank, Capital Area Food Bank, and food pantries operated by Johns Hopkins entities. Donation bins can be found at locations across the university and health system.

"Our food banks continue to be a trusted resource for families and individuals that face hardship," said Elise Krikau, chief philanthropy officer for the Maryland Food Bank. "We are deeply grateful for the support from Johns Hopkins and the United Way, which helps us respond quickly and compassionately when our communities need us most."