Local news plays a crucial role in keeping communities informed. In Indianapolis, a new Crisis Cooler has opened, providing fresh food to residents on the far east side. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to address food insecurity and food deserts in the area.

Empowering Communities with Fresh Food and Local Journalism

The Opening of the Fourth Crisis Cooler

A new cooler filled with fresh food has recently opened for residents on Indianapolis's far east side. This marks the fourth and final Crisis Cooler to be opened at the Pathways Resource Center, ahead of the holidays. The refrigerators are stocked with a variety of fresh meat, dairy, and produce, making it freely accessible to registered residents.Pathways CEO La Keisha Jackson emphasized the long-standing struggle with food insecurity in the area. As a state senator, she believes that grassroots programs like the Crisis Cooler can help bridge the food gap. "There are ways, between a farmer's market, initiatives, food pantries, and agencies, to close those food disparity gaps," she said.Pathways also has a food pantry inside the center that has been providing assistance since the pandemic, further demonstrating their commitment to addressing the community's needs.

The Partnership and Benefits

The Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE) partnered with nonprofit Hatch and Gleaners to provide the Crisis Cooler. In a statement, CAFE CEO Kendra Nowell highlighted the multiple benefits of the cooler. "By providing immediate access to fresh, nutritious food, we're not only addressing hunger but also nurturing the health and well-being of our community," she said.This Thanksgiving, a food giveaway was part of the opening celebration, with 75 families receiving turkeys, bags of groceries, and gift cards. It was a great way to kick off this important initiative.

The Importance of Local Journalism

Our journalism will always be free because of the donations from readers like you. WFYI editor Jill Sheridan wrote this article to bring attention to these local efforts. Gifts from readers make Mirror Indy's journalism possible. Through December 31, your donation will be tripled due to the year-end matching gift campaign in partnership with the Institute for Nonprofit News and local supporters. Let's keep informative, local independent journalism free for everyone in Indy.Oseye Boyd, Editor in Chief of Mirror Indy, encourages everyone to sign up for the Mirror Indy newsletter to stay informed about what's really going on in the city. By clicking Sign Up, you confirm your agreement with the Terms and Conditions.