Recipients of food from the Community Center Food Bank especially appreciate meat, fresh vegetables/fruit, and dairy products. When the Center’s refrigerator broke down, we no longer had adequate storage for items such as milk, butter, eggs, and cheese. The center’s chest freezer also has seen better days; staff must place a box on the lid to keep it closed, and thick layers of frost have accumulated inside as a result.
Board member Carolyn Fitzkee suggested that the Board check with the Church of the Brethren Global Food Initiative (GFI), where her brother serves as manager. GFI allocates grants to assist hungry people in developing food security. Director Joel Peña submitted an application, requesting funds to replace the refrigerator and freezer.
In July, the Community Center received a $2,000 grant from GFI, designated for the purchase of a new refrigerator and freezer. Petra Castro, Food Bank Coordinator, purchased a stainless steel, frost-free, 17-cubic-foot refrigerator and will use remaining funds toward the purchase of a new freezer. These purchases enable the Food Bank to continue to serve families in the community by offering nutritious, muchneeded, and much-appreciated food. Thank you, Global Food Initiative!
–Sherry Eshleman
