The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana will host its 7th Annual Hunger Action Month Fresh Mobile Marketplace from 9am to noon on Saturday, September 1, at the Food Bank’s new food distribution facility at 6490 Broadway, Merrillville. The event will be the first large-scale distribution held at the organization’s new home, and is expected to provide fresh, nutritious food assistance to more than 500 individuals.
“Thousands of Northwest Indiana neighbors struggle with hunger every day. And for families who are simply trying to make ends meet, fresh produce and protein can be even more difficult to find or afford,” said Steve Beekman, executive director of the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. “The Hunger Action Month Mobile Marketplace has always focused on fresh fruits and vegetables—and this year we want to provide more fresh produce and protein than ever before.”
The distribution, previously held at Wicker Memorial Park in Highland, is free and open to any Northwest Indiana resident in need of food assistance. Items include fresh eggs, milk, assorted fruits and vegetables, proteins, and other meal items. The distribution is first come, first served, and individuals receiving food assistance should bring proof of residency, as well as bags and boxes to carry items.
More than 100 community members are slated to volunteer at the event.
“This distribution provides critical food assistance to many of our neighbors, but it wouldn’t be possible without the community’s time, talents, and support,” said Beekman. “We’re grateful to the countless volunteers and donors who help ensure our hungry neighbors have access to fresh, healthy foods.”
Hunger Action Month is designed to inspire people to take action and raise awareness of the fact that 42 million Americans—including more than 90,000 people right here in Northwest Indiana—are food insecure, according to the USDA. In Lake and Porter counties, that’s one in seven people who struggle with hunger and may not know where they’ll find their next meal. That number includes one in five kids who many not have enough to eat.
In addition to the Fresh Mobile Marketplace on September 1, the Food Bank is holding its first Ride the Region event. Beginning at the Food Bank facility in Merrillville and ending at Wildrose Brewing Company in Griffith, motorcycle riders from across the Region will come together for a 75 mile to raise awareness and funds for hunger relief. Other Hunger Action Month events include: Hops for Hunger, hosted by Off Square Brewing on September 14; Fight Hunger, Get Fit at the Food Bank on September 15; and the 16th Annual Hunger Hike at Oak Ridge Prairie on September 29.
To learn more about the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana and how to get involved during Hunger Action Month, visit foodbanknwi.org/HAM.