2009 Annual Report - Executive Summary

This last calendar year can be characterized by saying "slow start, fast finish". The lack of year-end 2008 financial giving meant that we began the year with no cash reserves, unlike previous years when we counted upon the year-end balance to carry FAF through the tough first quarter. Consequently FAF scrambled to make payroll and pay bills, so we had to look to generate new sources for income.

Our new "Feinstein Challenge" initiative in March and April generated almost $20,000 as well as new food sources with Sara Lee and General Mills, and got FAF onto more solid footing financially. Our June Golf Tournament significantly under-performed, so cash got critical again in July/August, but Fall and our Banquet saw better results, a benefit concert along with a good December brought FAF to $184,000, slightly exceeding our 2009 financial budget. The Alternative Gifts program for the holidays performed well, and FAF also received our anticipated amount of grant money, which allowed us to replace our worn-out refrigerated truck with a much newer model as well as maintain our equipment and replace tires as needed. FAF is once again entering the New Year with minimal cash reserves.

FAF food donations were slower than anticipated the first two quarters, down close to 20% from last year's record totals at a time when our agency partners were telling us that need had increased by an estimated 30-40%. However, the second half of the year was very productive, allowing us to distribute a total of 3,582,338 pounds, within 1% of 2008. FAF was able to include significantly more nutritional value with increased dairy products, meat, and fresh produce. FAF chose to "stand pat" on the 170+ partner agencies we served, due to the increased demand each agency was facing and sometimes unpredictable supplies of food. However, FAF will begin adding agencies again at the beginning of 2010.

The FAF fleet of equipment was adequate to our needs until the very busy fourth quarter, primarily because of Stewart's extraordinary skill in maintaining and repairing the equipment. Several modifications to our loading docks and materials-handling systems smoothed out some operational challenges, which increased efficiency and safety. Anticipated growth in volume, comparable to this fourth quarter, will require another truck and refrigerated storage trailer in the near term.

In 2009 we also freshened up our image with a new logo and website - www.feedamericafirst.com

Feed America First operated in 2009 with the same paid staff of three, despite significant challenges such as my knee injury and consequent surgery and rehab. We increased our productivity, however, due to several key volunteers and groups which helped in the warehouse, with driving the trucks, and with some administrative work. The work load for the fourth quarter was excessive, and we needed more help.

Since 2009 in now in the books, we can reflect back upon a very tough year with some satisfaction that Feed America First took some tough hits and continued to grow, distributing more and better food to more families than ever before. We look to 2010 as a year of innovation and opportunity to evolve, so that we may more efficiently serve more families in need.