In a time of unprecedented need, the Montgomery County Food Bank is poised to make a significant impact on its community. With a major expansion and renovation project set to be completed in the spring, the food bank is gearing up to provide an additional 1 million meals annually, a crucial step in addressing the growing demand for food assistance in the region.

Empowering the Community: A Transformative Expansion

Expanding Capacity, Enhancing Impact

The $6.5 million, donation-funded project will see the food bank's facility undergo a significant transformation. The expansion will add 18,100 square feet to the existing structure, allowing the organization to better serve the needs of the community. This includes a 3,000-square-foot expansion of the produce rescue center, a 43% increase in freezer and refrigerated storage space, and the addition of over 5,000 square feet of food sorting workspace and storage. Notably, the project will also double the facility's capacity as an event space, accommodating groups of 80 or more people.

Addressing Growing Needs in a Thriving Region

The driving force behind this ambitious project is the rapid growth of Montgomery County, which was recently named one of the 10 fastest-growing counties in the United States by the U.S. Census Bureau. As the region continues to expand, the demand for food assistance has also risen significantly. In 2023, the food bank served an average of 80,000 people monthly, a 15% increase from the previous year.

Restoring Dignity and Providing Hope

For Kristine Marlow, the President and CEO of the Montgomery County Food Bank, this project is about more than just increasing capacity. It's about restoring dignity and providing hope to those in need. "Montgomery County has been through disasters together, but we come together because we believe in the basic tenet of dignity in our service, and that every person deserves to have food, water and shelter," Marlow said.

Funding the Future: The "Build Today, Feed Tomorrow" Campaign

The $6.5 million project has been made possible through the food bank's "Build Today, Feed Tomorrow" campaign, which has already secured roughly 80% of the necessary funding. This donation-driven initiative is a testament to the community's commitment to supporting those in need and ensuring that no one goes hungry in Montgomery County.

Transforming Lives, One Meal at a Time

The expansion and renovation of the Montgomery County Food Bank is more than just a physical transformation; it's a symbol of the organization's unwavering dedication to its mission. By increasing its capacity to provide nutritious meals, the food bank is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals and families in the region. As the community continues to grow, the Montgomery County Food Bank stands ready to meet the challenge, ensuring that no one is left behind.