The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana has acquired a new 15,000-square-foot facility adjacent to its current location on Broadway. This development allows the nonprofit to more than triple its storage capacity for rescuing food that might otherwise be wasted. The $2 million project increases storage capacity from 204 pallets to 750 pallets, according to Victor Garcia, President and CEO of the Food Bank.
A ‘Bread Breaking Ceremony’ marked the acquisition of the facility at 6510 Broadway in Merrillville. This new building is positioned next to the organization’s headquarters, providing space for future expansion if needed. Last year, the Food Bank moved 11.4 million pounds of food, setting a new record. However, the demand in Northwest Indiana is closer to 20 million pounds.
Jeff Strack, President and CEO of Strack & Van Til, played a key role by informing the Food Bank about the available cold storage warehouse. Strack supports the nonprofit’s efforts, emphasizing the crucial role of refrigerated storage. Denis McDonough, CEO of Feeding America, praised Garcia for advocating innovative, community-centered initiatives, particularly as federal food assistance sees cuts, increasing demand.
The event was attended by numerous local leaders, including U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan, who committed to advocating for more federal funding. Mrvan highlighted the community’s resilience following the Aug. 11 derecho, which left significant damage. Sixteen days post-storm, NIPSCO reported 265 outages. McDonough noted that the Food Bank’s expanded infrastructure improves their ability to respond in emergencies, providing essentials like dairy and protein.
With the new facility purchase, existing freezer space will be converted to refrigerated storage. McDonough expressed optimism, seeing this transformation as a step toward not just alleviating hunger temporarily, but ultimately ending it. According to Garcia, this expansion won’t only sustain individuals but empower the community to tackle hunger more effectively.
Garcia extended gratitude to the numerous food pantries, schools, and organizations frontlining the fight against hunger. Jeff Strack emphasized the role of food in community-building, while Food Bank board President Bob Jacobs underscored the need for continued effort in addressing hunger. The ceremony concluded with participants breaking bread together, symbolizing unity and responsibility.