The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana’s innovative OrderAhead refrigerated locker program is expanding across the country.
In a partnership with Feeding America, the Merrillville-based Food Bank of Northwest Indiana has been operating an OrderAhead locker program. The program provides a fast, private and easy way for those facing food insecurity to order free groceries online.
The food bank recently served as host for US Foods to announce a $750,000 investment to expand the locker initiative. Chicago-based US Foods will help bring the model to seven communities in Illinois, Wisconsin, Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Ohio by the end of this year.
“Everyone deserves dignified access to nutritious food to thrive,” said Casey Marsh, Feeding America chief development officer, in a press release. “In collaboration with local partner food banks and alongside people facing hunger, we prioritize dignity so we can transform the charitable food system together.”
While the locker program extends to more areas of the U.S., the food bank is launching its fifth OrderAhead locker location in the Region. The locker set is at the South Haven Boys & Girls Clubs.
“This innovative locker system is more than just a way to distribute food—it’s a game changer in how we tackle food insecurity in our Region,” Chanda Dixon, food bank director of community impact, said.
Many families face challenges in accessing nutritious food due to their busy schedules, transportation barriers or limited pantry hours.
“The OrderAhead locker solves these challenges by allowing families to order food online and pick it up at a time that’s convenient for them, 24/7,” Dixon said. “No long lines, no stress—just fresh, nutritious food available whenever it’s needed.”
The food bank can maximize its impact by having it at a Boys & Girls Clubs location.
“This location not only provides a safe and welcoming space for children but also ensures their families can easily access healthy meals, reducing the burden of food insecurity,” Dixon said. “Together, we are helping to ensure that no family in our community has to choose between work, transportation and putting food on the table.”
The food bank operates two sets of lockers in Porter County and three in Lake County. It distributes over 7 million pounds of groceries annually to individuals in Lake and Porter Counties.
