HARRY CHAPIN FOOD BANK BENEFIT CONCERT

As the holidays fade into memory, both the snow, and the temperature are falling here in Ontario. Anna and I are busy with rehearsals for our benefit concert for the Harry Chapin Food Bank in Southwest Florida on January 13. I must confess that I am looking forward to the warmer temperatures, and reuniting with our good friends at Coconut Point in Estero, including Food Bank Chairman, Keith Scoggins, who, being a fine musician in his own right, will be opening for us.

For you younger folks, Harry Chapin was a cinematographer, playwright, poet, songwriter and ardent advocate, fighting against what he saw as injustices in our society. He was best known as a prolific songwriter, recording artist and performer who played more than 300 concerts a year. He was the author of such enduring classics as Taxi, Circle, and Cats in the Cradle.

Over the years, Harry demonstrated an amazing personal commitment, giving the proceeds of every other concert to organizations fighting hunger. Hunger became Harry’s cause and passion, discussing ending hunger at all appearances, lobbying Washington constantly for help, and aiding in the establishment of the World Hunger Commission. He was the founder of World Hunger Year (WHY), an international organization that brings grassroots organizations together to fight hunger. 

He also established the hunger hotline in New York City (a service that remains open for all hungry people in the city) and the Long Island Cares Food Bank, where his widow, Sandy, still serves on the board of directors. 

In 1981, Harry died suddenly and tragically in an automobile crash on the Long Island Expressway. He was scheduled to complete another benefit concert that night. 

We are honoured to be returning to Southwest Florida to perform at this benefit concert for the Harry Chapin Food Bank. Although this is a private event, you can participate by contributing to your local food bank, either in Southwest Florida, or anywhere in the world through The Global Food Banking Network.