(Sioux Falls, S.D.)– Midwest Food Bank is planning a permanent distribution center in Sioux Falls, aiming to strengthen food assistance across the region. The planned Tri-State Division builds on nearly two years of monthly distributions in Sioux Falls, with volunteers transporting food from the organization’s Peoria, Illinois facility.
Midwest Food Bank currently partners with about 20 nonprofit agencies across the region. Chief Resource Officer Kristen Patty says they’ve identified five partners in northwest Iowa, including the food pantry in Lake Park operated by the Dickinson County Hunger Coalition. She says the organization is still evaluating sites and building its timeline…
“We’re evaluating facility options, developing that timeline. Our goal is a year from now to have a site and have partner agencies picking up daily.”
Founded in Illinois in 2003, Midwest Food Bank is a faith-based nonprofit that relies heavily on volunteers to procure and distribute food. Patty says that helps them stretch financial contributions…
“And so for every dollar donated to Midwest Food Bank, we can distribute approximately $35 worth of food.”
Volunteer roles range from bookkeeping to helping distribute food. As the Tri-State Division develops, the organization will seek help from individuals, churches, businesses, and community groups…
“We will also need financial contributions to help continue to build a local presence in the tri-state area.”
Patty says an advisory board is already helping as Midwest Food Bank builds its regional operation and seeks additional nonprofit partners. Northwest Iowa agencies interested in partnering — and individuals interested in volunteering or donating — can learn more at midwestfoodbank.org.
(Courtesy Community First Broadcasting’s Sioux County Radio)
