We are looking ahead past winter and see an exciting spring on its way. Our food distribution so far in 2017 has been larger than we predicted it would be; that’s always welcomed news.
We will participle in a pilot program “Mixing Center” that will be starting at Gleaners Food Bank in Indianapolis in March or April. This pilot program is centered on fresh produce. The idea is to have 20-30 food banks in this region of the country who would draw from Gleaners on a weekly/monthly basis for a variety of fresh produce to meet the needs each food bank has for produce. This would allow a food bank, even a small one, to have a variety that would be in quantities workable for local distribution.
For Second Harvest, we would begin to see a consistent supply of wider variety than we have now. That would enhance our School Food Pantry Program very nicely. It would also strengthen our offerings to our agencies in our eight-county service area. This new opportunity could assist us with being able to have gaps of donation filled in with some wonderful products.
We are also moving toward the 13th graduation class of our Delaware County Circles program. The nine people who are now enrolled in this 16-week coursework will be graduating in April. This is certainly a milestone achievement for all who are currently around the table each week.
This opt-in program is designed to assist and help develop pathways toward self-sufficiency for an individual by setting Smart Goals with accountability and growth in expanded relationships with committed allies. This important first step is critical for someone to move from a life many describe as day-to-day survival up a strategic pathway to achieve self-sufficiency. The ultimate goal of this program is to see people thrive in the community free of safety net social services who contribute back through reciprocity for the betterment of all.
Tim Kean
President & CEO