Nutritional Development Services (NDS), part of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, is conducting its annual "One-Can Meal" food drive. The initiative runs from March 5 to April 16, 2025, and aims to encourage participation in the Lenten season through prayer, almsgiving, and fasting.

For over three decades, NDS has organized this drive. Last year, it collected about 26,000 pounds of non-perishable items for families and individuals facing food insecurity. Those wishing to support NDS' Community Food Program can contact Ms. Denise Hopkins at [email protected]. Donations can also be made online.

The donations will supply NDS' network of 50 food cupboards across Greater Philadelphia, including those operated by Catholic Social Services and other community programs. Schools within the Archdiocese are also involved in organizing collections of non-perishable "one-can" meal items like ravioli and chicken soup.

Additionally, participants can join Rice Bowl, a Catholic Relief Services initiative that integrates prayer and charity into Lenten practices. A quarter of Rice Bowl donations aid NDS in addressing local hunger and poverty. More information is available at http://archphila.org/crsricebowl/.