Community impact is rarely the result of a single moment. More often, it grows through many faithful steps taken together. This season, Midwest Food Bank has been deeply humbled by the generosity of churches, organizations, and neighbors who chose to serve alongside us.
We were honored to be selected as one of six nonprofit beneficiaries of the Giving Machine, hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even more meaningful, three of the other selected nonprofits were agencies we currently serve, reflecting shared mission and unity in service. Being invited to speak at the ribbon cutting allowed us to share who we are, what we do, and why food relief matters. We look forward to sharing more as this story continues.
At the same time, LCBC Church selected Midwest Food Bank as a beneficiary of their Wide Open fundraising campaign. Their generosity, paired with consistent volunteer support and thoughtful partnership, helped strengthen our position as the year came to a close. We are truly blessed to have LCBC walking in step with us.
Beyond these large acts of generosity, many smaller but no less faithful efforts have made a meaningful difference. St. Thomas UCC in Linglestown donated more than 230 pounds of food. Commonwealth Charter Academy contributed over 600 pounds. Ilgenfritz Financial and Fulton Financial Advisors included Midwest Food Bank as beneficiaries through client gatherings and holiday gifts, alongside many others who quietly and compassionately gave.
That same spirit was on display at GrowMark FS, which hosted its annual employee meeting in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and centered its team-building activity on a food drive for Midwest Food Bank. Using canned goods, employees created an American flag, an alligator, a checkerboard, and a corn cob, then assembled meal kits for our agencies. By the end of the event, GrowMark donated more than 5,500 pounds of food. Our volunteer truck driver, Rickey Cole, was requested again after last year’s visit left such a strong impression. Employees helped load the truck and paused for a photo together, a moment of fellowship that reflected a lasting partnership. GrowMark has long provided support for Midwest Food Bank’s mission.
Each gift, large or small, helps food reach families with dignity and care. This is what community impact looks like when generosity is shared.
