$6K Raised By Malvern Prep For Chester County Food Bank

MALVERN, PA —Malvern Preparatory School student Mateo Albans, class of 2027, donated $6,000 to the Chester County Food Bank.

Albans, 14, raised the funds through a virtual food drive in support of the Chester County Food Bank - the central hunger relief organization in Chester County.

Albans said he hopes his experience serves as a reminder to his peers of the importance of giving back.

“We are extremely fortunate to attend a school such as Malvern Prep,” said Mateo, “We need to work together to spread good, especially in our local community.”

Andrea Youndt, CEO of the food bank, said Mateo’s passion for giving is a testament to the power of one individual to spark meaningful change."
“Young people are the future, and their compassion will help lead the way in breaking the cycles of food insecurity,” Youndt said.
As the son of a first-generation immigrant from Peru, Mateo Alban has witnessed first-hand the effects of poverty and food insecurity on the people who live there.
So, when Mateo learned that even neighbors in his Chester County hometown struggle with food insecurity, he saw this as an opportunity to make an impact.
The food bank takes a steadfast approach to providing food and building support for neighbors in need while raising awareness and engagement among their communities.
Mateo said he was inspired by the many opportunities to give back. One mentor who stands out to him is. Kelly Catania, director of Christian Service at Malvern Prep.
“We encourage our students to engage in Christian Service work that is meaningful for them, " Kelly said. “Mateo is a perfect example for other students and young people to show that they can make a difference, regardless of age, especially when they find a project that speaks to them.”