Merrillville-based Legacy Foundation and the City of Gary awarded a combined $85,000 to the Gary Food Collective Co-op.

The Family Life Community Center leads the community food co-op initiative. The program addresses food insecurity, fosters economic growth and empowers Gary residents. The funding will help expand the food co-op program across the city.

The initiative helps to provide residents with access to fresh, healthy and affordable food. It also aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to launch and sustain their own food co-ops.

“Access to healthy, affordable food for our residents is a fundamental quality of life issue,” Mayor Eddie Melton said in a press release. “This program shows we can collaboratively address food insecurity while also providing education and entrepreneurship opportunities that benefit our community.” 

The Food Collective Co-op program combats food insecurity across Gary and promotes economic development by training individuals to operate their own co-ops.  

“I am excited to see the growth of the Gary Food Collective Co-op and the positive impact it will continue having on the city,” Kelly Anoe, Legacy Foundation president and CEO, said.

In the last three months, Family Life Community Center has helped feed nearly 8,000 people. The co-op is primarily sourced by the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. Through a new partnership, the co-op also receives items from local Meijer and Target locations.  

“Receiving these grants is a monumental step forward for the Gary Food Collective,” LaJuan Clemons, Family Life Community Center founder, said.

According to Clemons, the program’s expansion will make nutritious food more accessible, promote workforce development and foster community empowerment.

“This is about more than just food; it’s about building a sustainable, self-reliant community that thrives together,” Clemons said.