The Florence V. Carroll Charitable Trust has awarded Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry a grant in the amount of $10,000. These funds will help to pay processing fees on donated livestock and deer with the meat being given to hunger relief agencies serving food-insecure residents within St. Joseph County.
According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap, there are 37,850 people in St. Joseph County who regularly struggle with food insecurity – 11,650 of which are children. More than ever, families are struggling to buy groceries. Food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens work to protect the most vulnerable and under-served in our communities. These agencies continue to face increased demand during these uncertain times. Proper nutrition is vital to the health of all Hoosiers. That is why protein, an important component of every cell in the body and one of the most important nutrients for brain and body development in children, is so important. Sadly, it is also the hardest commodity for food banks to obtain, especially now.
The funds provided will allow Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry to pay for the processing of approximately 8,600 pounds of donated livestock and deer – providing almost 35,000 more meals through local hunger relief agencies. “We are so thankful to have this Trust support our effort in responding to the needs of those in their community facing hunger. A meal provided to a person in need means reduced hunger and increased disposable income because they can spend less on food. Right now, that is so important.” said Debra Treesh, Executive Director of Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry.