Together for Change: Midwest Food Bank’s Community Partnerships
ARIZONA
AgWest Farm Credit: Strengthening Communities Through Service and Generosity
Midwest Food Bank Arizona was abuzz with activity on October 8 as AgWest Farm Credit employees joined forces to assemble hygiene kits for disaster relief. In addition to their hands-on contributions, AgWest made a $6,000 donation, reinforcing their commitment to supporting communities in need.
"Our team is deeply committed to giving back to the communities we serve," said Michelle Paul, Vice President Marketing Advising of AgWest Farm Credit. "Partnering with Midwest Food Bank allows us to directly impact families and individuals who rely on these essential resources."
A History of Community Commitment
AgWest Farm Credit was formed in January 2023 through the merger of Farm Credit West and Northwest Farm Credit Services. The organization has a long-standing tradition of supporting rural communities and promoting agricultural sustainability. Over the years, their employees have donated thousands of volunteer hours to community projects, including previous partnerships with Midwest Food Bank Arizona.
"Giving back to the people and organizations that help our communities thrive is one of our core values," AgWest emphasizes on its website. Their commitment to service goes beyond financial donations, fostering a culture of active participation and engagement.
Why Hygiene Kits Matter
The hygiene kits assembled by AgWest employees play a vital role in disaster relief. Each kit contains essential items like soap, toothbrushes, and other personal hygiene products, offering a sense of dignity and care to those affected by emergencies. These kits are distributed to individuals and families facing unexpected crises, ensuring their basic needs are met during challenging times.
"Corporate partners like AgWest Farm Credit make it possible for us to reach more people with life-saving supplies," said Merilee Baptiste, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Arizona.
AgWest's efforts remind us that impactful change happens when communities and businesses come together. Whether it'sthrough financial contributions, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, there are countless ways to support Midwest Food Bank Arizona.
BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL, IL
The Impact of a Grant from LDS Humanitarian Services on Midwest Food Bank
The need for food assistance in the Midwest has surged over the past year, with a 25% increase in families turning to food banks due to rising inflation and escalating costs. Midwest Food Bank has been working hard to meet this growing demand, and thanks to a $300,000 grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Services, we're now better equipped to serve communities in need.
This substantial support has enabled Midwest Food Bank to expand our food procurement efforts and enhance its delivery logistics, including purchasing a new truck that plays a crucial role in our operations. With over 2,400 partner nonprofits depending on MFB, this new vehicle has improved their ability to distribute food more efficiently, especially to rural and underserved areas.
"This grant is pivotal in allowing us to keep pace with the increasing demand and to ensure that no community is left behind," said Jada Hoerr, Chief Resource Officer at Midwest Food Bank. "Every delivery we make helps families put food on their tables, and this new truck will significantly enhance our reach and operational efficiency."
The funding from LDS Humanitarian Services not only supports food procurement but also staffing needs crucial for maintaining large-scale food bank operations. The collaboration between Midwest Food Bank and LDS Humanitarian Services exemplifies how partnerships can drive substantial improvements in combating hunger and poverty.
On December 6, 2024, Midwest Food Bank will host an event to showcase the impact of this grant. Leaders from both organizations highlighted the changes made possible through this funding, and attendees witnessed the new delivery truck in action, underscoring the tangible benefits of this partnership in helping families in need.
FLORIDA
Midwest Food Bank Florida Launches New Food Distribution in Immokalee
Midwest Food Bank Florida has introduced a new monthly food distribution in Immokalee, FL. Initially delayed by October's hurricanes, the first distribution took place in November, thanks to the collaborative efforts of The Immokalee Foundation, the Community Coop, and Immokalee High School, which hosted the event.
Immokalee, one of the poorest communities in the U.S., faces significant food insecurity. John McKinnon of Midwest Food Bank emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "The newly launched Immokalee Distribution is a major advancement in Midwest Food Bank's efforts to provide consistent and reliable food support to those in need across Southwest Florida."
This distribution is planned as a regular event on the second Thursday of every month. For more information on how to volunteer or support this effort, visit Midwest Food Bank Florida.
INDIANA
New Pantry Opens in Southside Indianapolis
On September 6, 2024, St. Vincent de Paul Indianapolis (SVdP Indy) celebrated the opening of the Love Your Neighbor Food Pantry at 2500 Churchman Avenue. The pantry began operating in June and serves 60 families weekly in the 46203 and 46107 zip codes—areas with limited grocery access and transportation challenges.
"With the nearest grocery several miles away and the nearest bus stop a mile and a half away, there is a lot of need in this community," said Crystal Wiley, Director of the Love Your Neighbor Center.
Part of a Larger Mission
The food pantry is part of SVdP Indy's Love Your Neighbor Center (LYNC), which also includes supportive housing for 13 men transitioning from homelessness. Opened in 2023, the housing program helps residents build skills, secure employment, and transition to permanent housing.
"St. Vincent de Paul Indianapolis is a long-time advocate for our neighbors in the Indianapolis community who lack access to basic needs, such as food and clothing," says Peter Zubler, executive director of SVdP Indy. "We've been helping those with food insecurity for 25 years."
Collaboration and Community Impact
This is SVdP Indy's third food pantry, joining locations on 30th Street and Boulevard Place. Together with Midwest Food Bank, the organization provides food relief to 5,000 families weekly across Indianapolis.
"This pantry addresses a critical need in the community," said Marcie Luhigo, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Indiana.
PENNSYLVANIA
Elizabethtown College Bonner Program's Impact at Midwest Food Bank
For students at Elizabethtown College, the Bonner Program offers a unique opportunity to grow while serving their communities. This four-year initiative pairs students with local nonprofits, including Midwest Food Bank Pennsylvania, where they gain hands-on experience, develop critical skills, and leave a lasting impact.
What is the Bonner Program?
The Bonner Program is a national initiative focusing on community engagement and leadership development. At Elizabethtown College, participants commit to 10 hours of weekly service at a partner nonprofit. Students build a deeper understanding of community needs, refine their problem-solving skills, and foster a strong sense of civic responsibility.
At Midwest Food Bank, Bonner participants play an integral role in ensuring the smooth operation of food relief services. From administrative tasks to warehouse work, these students contribute their time and energy to help distribute millions of pounds of food annually.
Student Spotlights: Leadership in Action
Olivia Goebel is a a third-year Bonner partner. Her journey has been one of growth and discovery. Not only has she become forklift-certified—an unusual but valuable skill—but she has also taken on leadership roles like organizing service projects for her peers. Recently, Olivia led a group of students from the Food Recovery Network in a weekend warehouse initiative, demonstrating her ability to inspire and coordinate others.
"I enjoy my time at Midwest Food Bank," Olivia shares. "I have learned a lot about the charitable food system and how the food provided by Midwest helps pantries and food programs.
Fellow students Zach Kleinfelter and Lauren Woodruff are in their second year of service with Midwest Food Bank. Their contributions range from fulfilling agency orders to assisting with volunteer groups, highlighting the diverse ways students can support our mission.
Mutual Benefits of Service
The Bonner Program is a win-win for students and nonprofits. According to Janice Reinke, Food Procurement and Distribution Manager at Midwest Food Bank Pennsylvania, "We are thankful for the Etown students—they are part of our team, always willing to pitch in and do what it takes to get the job done."
The Bigger Picture: Leadership Through Service
By connecting classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, students gain a deeper understanding of societal issues and the skills needed to address them. This partnership strengthens operations for nonprofits like Midwest Food Bank while fostering the next generation of community leaders.
PENNSYLVANIA
A Simple Program That Changes Lives
Food insecurity continues to grow, with Midwest Food Bank Pennsylvania feeding over 300,000 people—a 60% increase since 2023. Simultaneously, many individuals face challenges with nutrition and fitness. To address both, MFB Pennsylvania launched Giving Wellness, a unique program promoting personal health while feeding children in need. The program, piloted by CommunityAid and Strategic Program Partners, is provided in partnership with Precision Training Concepts and Amber Peterson, a national board-certified health coach.
How It Works
Giving Wellness is an 8-week healthy habits challenge designed for businesses, churches, and groups. Participants use an app to complete daily tasks, including:
- Eating more fruits and vegetables
- Drinking water
- Reducing sugar
- Staying active
The program incorporates accountability partners and friendly competition, encouraging sustained participation.
Impact Beyond the Individual
For each participant, the program provides weekend meals for 11 children through Midwest Food Bank's Hope Packs program. These meals ensure kids who rely on school lunches have food over the weekend.
"At PTC, our goal is sustainable health—not fads," says Patty Sibbach, co-founder of Precision Training Concepts (PTC), a partner in the initiative. "Combining wellness with community support creates meaningful change for everyone involved."
The Launch
Giving Wellness debuted on September 25, 2024, in Harrisburg's Capitol Rotunda. Backed by sponsors like Members 1st FCU and pilot groups, including CommunityAid, the program quickly gained traction. To date, 120 participants from seven groups have joined.
"This program improves personal health and provides critical resources for children in need," says Kathy Anderson-Martin, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Pennsylvania.
Giving Wellness will expand in 2025, inviting more businesses and groups to participate. By joining, you can improve your team's health while directly supporting local children. Visit givingwellness.org or contact Kathy Anderson-Martin at
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