In Lexington, Kentucky, the Berea Food Bank is in the midst of a powerful end-of-year giving campaign. Their dedication to giving back is truly remarkable. With the holiday season upon us and beyond, they are working tirelessly to ensure that no one in Berea goes hungry. Executive Director Tony Crachiolo emphasizes their commitment, stating, "We are doing everything that we can to make sure that nobody in Berea need go hungry. Period."

"Berea Food Bank: Feeding the Community, One Meal at a Time"

Helping Local Partners

On Wednesday, the Berea Food Bank took significant steps to ensure everyone stays fed. They assisted three local partners, demonstrating their active role in the community. During a time when gathering around the table is common, food banks play a crucial role in providing access to basic nutritional needs. Crachiolo further explains, "When our regular food pantry clients come to us, we send them home with no less than a week's worth of groceries."This approach not only meets the immediate needs of the community but also builds a sense of security and well-being. It shows that the Berea Food Bank is dedicated to providing sustainable support.

Allowing Partners to Shop

To reach even more people, the Berea Food Bank has implemented a unique approach. They allow their partners, such as the Appalachian Community Meal Project, to shop through their inventory. Amanda Smith-Nance, the founder of the Appalachian Community Meal Project, highlights the importance of this. She says, "With nobody having disposable income these days, having enough income for an adequate amount of groceries is ever challenging."By enabling their partners to access food resources, the Berea Food Bank is expanding their reach and making a greater impact. This collaborative effort helps to address the growing need for food assistance in the community.

Building Little Food Pantries

Amanda Smith-Nance is also involved in building little food pantries throughout the town. These pantries provide 24/7 access to food, eliminating bureaucracy and paperwork. Smith-Nance explains, "People can access food 24/7. No bureaucracy, no paperwork, no hurdles or social hoops to jump through. You just show up, take what you need and leave what you want if you can."However, she also acknowledges the challenge of keeping these pantries stocked due to the great need. Despite the difficulties, the Berea Food Bank is committed to helping others who share the same goal.

Supporting Other Organizations

The Berea Food Bank's mission extends beyond their own operations. They actively support other organizations when they can. Up initiative of Madison County and Union Church also picked up groceries to take back to their pantries, ready to assist any Berean in need.This shows the interconnectedness of community organizations and the power of collective action. The Berea Food Bank is a vital part of this network, providing essential support and resources.In conclusion, the Berea Food Bank's end-of-year giving campaign and community support efforts are making a significant difference in the lives of many. Through their various initiatives and partnerships, they are working towards a hunger-free community. Their dedication and commitment serve as an inspiration to others in the area.