The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana has several programs that help to combat hunger for different groups in various parts of the region. This year, two Food Bank programs received funding from the Foundations of East Chicago (FEC) for the work they have done for the health of the community.
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to feed food insecure senior citizens in East Chicago. Two hundred forty-five individuals are identified and are delivered a monthly box of shelf-stable food items. This allows East Chicago seniors to eat healthy even if they have a difficult time leaving their homes or paying for groceries.
Another Food Bank of NWI program that was funded by FEC this year is the Fresh Produce Box Program. This initiative works in tandem with the CSFP. However, the Fresh Produce Box Program ensures that those seniors receiving shelf-stable items through CSFP are also receiving fresh fruits and vegetables to keep their diet balanced.
These programs not only help to feed hungry East Chicago citizens, but they help to combat various illnesses and injuries associated with malnutrition.
The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana also offers programs such as the BackPack Program and the Summer Food Service Program to East Chicago students who are food insecure. These programs combined work to ensure that children in need are fed year round, even at times when they are not in school to receive breakfast and lunch.
Additionally, the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana offers a service called Pantry on the Go. This program brings food to various locations around the city so that those who are in need but may not have a mode of transportation for getting to the pantry have an easier time obtaining what they need.
FEC thanks the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana for their commitment to feeding all East Chicago residents in need throughout 2016. To learn more about the Food Bank or to see which other grantees made a difference this year, visit www.FoundationsEC.org.
