Food insecurity is a persistent problem in Northwest Indiana, affecting thousands of households each year. The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana stands as a beacon of hope, providing vital support to those struggling to meet their basic nutritional needs.
Nestled in Gary, Indiana, the Food Bank has been a lifeline for the region since its inception in 1985. The organization's mission is to alleviate hunger and promote self-sufficiency by sourcing, distributing, and advocating for food access.
The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana offers a comprehensive range of services to address food insecurity in the region, including:
The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana has a profound impact on the communities it serves. In 2021, the organization:
1. Daisy's Story:
Daisy is a single mother of three young children. After losing her job, Daisy struggled to keep food on the table. She turned to the Food Bank for help and was able to access healthy meals for her family. Daisy credits the Food Bank with providing her with the stability she needed to find new employment and regain self-sufficiency.
2. Michael's Story:
Michael is a senior citizen living on a fixed income. As his expenses increased, Michael found it increasingly difficult to afford groceries. The Food Bank's Senior Food Box Program has been a lifesaver for Michael, ensuring that he has enough nutritious food to stay healthy.
3. Sarah's Story:
Sarah is a working mother who often struggled to make ends meet. The Food Bank's Mobile Food Pantry came to her neighborhood once a month, providing Sarah with fresh produce, canned goods, and other essentials. Sarah says that the Food Bank has made it possible for her to provide healthy meals for her family without breaking the bank.
What We Learn from These Stories:
There are many ways to support the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana in its mission to fight hunger. Here's how you can help:
1. Who is eligible for services from the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana?
Anyone in Northwest Indiana who faces food insecurity is eligible for assistance from the Food Bank.
2. How can I donate food to the Food Bank?
You can donate non-perishable food items to the Food Bank or one of its partner agencies.
3. How can I volunteer my time to the Food Bank?
Visit the Food Bank's website or contact the organization directly to learn about volunteer opportunities.
4. How can I advocate for policies that support food security?
Contact your elected officials and let them know that you support policies to expand food assistance and address the root causes of hunger.
5. How can I raise awareness about the Food Bank's work?
Spread the word about the Food Bank's mission and services on social media, organize fundraisers, or engage in other outreach activities.
6. What are the hours of operation for the Food Bank?
The Food Bank is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Join the fight against food insecurity in Northwest Indiana! Support the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana with your donations, your time, and your voice. Together, we can ensure that everyone in our community has access to the food they need to thrive.
Table 1: Food Distribution Statistics (2021)
Program | Number of Individuals Reached | Pounds of Food Distributed |
---|---|---|
Food Distribution | 35,000 | 6,000,000 |
Mobile Food Pantries | 15,000 | 2,000,000 |
Senior Food Box Program | 1,000 | 1,000,000 |
SNAP Outreach | 15,000 | N/A |
Table 2: Food Insecurity Rates in Northwest Indiana
County | Food Insecurity Rate |
---|---|
Lake County | 13.1% |
Porter County | 9.5% |
LaPorte County | 12.3% |
Jasper County | 13.7% |
Newton County | 16.5% |
Table 3: Impact of the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana (2021)
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Total Food Distributed | 12,000,000 pounds |
Individuals Reached | 65,000 |
Savings for Families | $2,000,000 |
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