Fighting Hunger Across the Mohawk Valley:
The AOH John C. Devereux, Division 1, is committed to feeding the hungry and helping those in need...

The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) John C. Devereux, Division 1 in Utica, NY, is proud to be at the forefront of battling hunger across the Mohawk Valley. As part of our commitment to the Hibernian principles of Friendship, Unity, and Christian Charity, we have dedicated countless hours and resources to ensuring no family in our community goes hungry. Through ongoing donations, creative fundraisers, and annual traditions, the AOH plays a vital role in supporting food security for our needy neighbors.

Ongoing Donations to Food Banks and Pantries:

One of our core missions is to provide continuous support to food banks and pantries across the Mohawk Valley. Whether it’s through monetary donations or the organization of food drives, we work hand-in-hand with local organizations to ensure essential items are available to families struggling to put meals on their tables. Our members take pride in knowing that these efforts directly impact the lives of those who need it most in our community.

Annual Golf Tournament to Benefit the Food Bank of Central New York:

Every year, we host a Golf Tournament to raise funds for the Food Bank of Central New York, a critical partner in alleviating hunger. This popular event brings together the community for a day of camaraderie, competition, and charity. The funds raised allow the Food Bank to distribute meals to those in need, supporting their mission of providing access to nutritious food throughout the region.

Specialty Fundraisers: Creative Ways to Give Back

To ensure the success of our charitable efforts, the AOH hosts a variety of creative fundraisers every year:

• “The Coolers o' Cheer” Raffle: A fan favorite every summer, this unique raffle offers participants the chance to win coolers packed with premium beverages, all while raising significant funds to support our hunger relief initiatives.
• “The Best Guinness Pouring Competition”: Combining Irish pride and community spirit, this fun, fall event invites local bartenders to compete in pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. Proceeds from the competition are used to fund our food bank donations and other charitable causes.

These events not only raise funds, but they also bring people together, building a stronger community while supporting a vital cause.

Annual Thanksgiving Potato Distribution:

One of our most cherished traditions is the Thanksgiving Potato Distribution. Each year, just in time for the holiday season, the AOH partners with The Oneida Co. Sheriff's Department to help the food banks provide families with potatoes for their holiday tables — perhaps a bit cliche, but potatoes are a staple of many holiday meals. Our division teams up with the Sheriff's Department to purchase 5000 lbs of potatoes from a local farm to help those families who need a hand to make Thanksgiving a thankful day!  We appreciate our partnership with the Sheriff's Dept, who help us BUY the potatoes (imagine 5000lbs in 100lb bags) and then break them down into family-sized portions and then share those with the local food banks for distribution!

This initiative ensures that families across the Mohawk Valley have access to fresh, nourishing food as they gather to celebrate and give thanks.

Why We Do It:

Hunger knows no boundaries, affecting the Mohawk Valley's families, children, and seniors. The AOH John C. Devereux, Division 1, believes that our moral obligation is to fight hunger with every resource we have. By combining our Irish heritage of generosity and faith with creative fundraising and community partnerships, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.

How You Can Help:

We welcome the support of the community in our mission to fight hunger. Whether participating in one of our fundraisers, joining us for our events, or simply spreading the word, your help makes all the difference. Together, we can continue to feed the hungry and foster a stronger, more compassionate Mohawk Valley.

Through our constant efforts, the AOH John C. Devereux, Division 1, is preserving Irish-American traditions and living out the spirit of charity and kindness that defines us. Thank you for supporting our mission to fight hunger in the Mohawk Valley!