The Merrillville-based Food Bank of Northwest Indiana has been awarded a grant to receive a new refrigerated truck.
The truck will boost the food bank’s ability to deliver fresh, nutritious food across the Region.
“Through this grant in partnership with the Darden Restaurants Foundation and Penske Truck Leasing, the food bank is going to be better poised to distribute even more nutrient dense foods to our neighbors in need in Lake and Porter counties,” said Victor Garcia, Food Bank of Northwest Indiana president and CEO, in a press release. “We're excited for this partnership that was brought to us through our affiliation with the Feeding America network of food banks.”
To celebrate the milestone, the food bank hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Oct. 22, with support from partner organizations and state and local leaders.
“Refrigerated trucks are used to salvage food and make sure that we're able to get as much donated food into our warehouse as possible,” Garcia said. “The truck can also be used to distribute food to our 130 partner agencies and the mobile market distributions that we operate five days a week.”
The grant goes beyond logistics and transportation. It symbolizes progress toward greater food equity for underserved communities.
“Without refrigeration, we’re unable to source or distribute nutrient dense fresh produce and proteins to our neighbors who live in food deserts,” Garcia said. “With this refrigerated vehicle, we're able to bring more nutrition to the community.”
The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana is one of nine Feeding America partner food banks selected to receive support through the $2 million grant initiative.
“Hunger remains a widespread issue that touches lives in every corner of our country,” Stephanie Ghertner, Darden Restaurants Foundation executive director, said. “At Darden and the Darden Restaurants Foundation, we believe in taking action to make a difference.”
This marks the fifth consecutive year that the Darden Restaurants Foundation and Penske have teamed up during Hunger Action Month to strengthen food access in communities affected by hunger.
