Tazewell County students turn MFB Peoria into a classroom

Midwest Food Bank Peoria became a giant classroom when 70 students learned about MFB and how we get food to local food pantries and people in need. The field trip was possible because of a civics action learning grant the health department received.

"Visiting the food bank gave students a better understanding of the supply chain for local food pantries," says Shanita Wallace, Tazewell County Health Department. "The video emphasized the effect food insecurity may have on our friends, family or neighbors."

In grades kindergarten through fourth, the students toured the warehouse and saw how we store food in refrigerated semi-trucks and the drive-through refrigerator and freezer. They watched a video about MFB and tasted Tender Mercies, a nutritious meal packed at MFB.

"For those food-insecure students, it shows them they are not alone," says Shanita.

The students also worked on the MFB activity book, a resource designed specifically for children to learn about service and food insecurity. MFB is committed to providing volunteer and learning opportunities for all ages.

"It is a joy to participate in a charitable learning experience for young people, " says Monica Scheuer, Executive Director of MFB Peoria. "They have a great capacity and desire to give back to their community."