Pacers' Drive & Dish Program Expands to Combat Food Insecurity Across Indiana

The Indianapolis Pacers have announced significant advancements to their Drive & Dish program, a community initiative aimed at addressing food insecurity in the region. Led by head coach Rick Carlisle, the program is partnering with Gleaners Food Bank and the Colts organization to expand its reach and impact across Indiana.

Empowering Communities Through Accessible Nutrition

Strengthening the Drive & Dish Initiative

The Drive & Dish program has undergone a major transformation, with the Pacers ownership group, headed by Herb Simon, providing substantial financial support to the tune of eight figures. This influx of resources will enable the program to significantly increase its food distribution capabilities, with the goal of delivering 33,000 boxes of food to those in need next year.The partnership with Gleaners Food Bank, and specifically their Gleaners2Go program, is a strategic move that will allow the Drive & Dish initiative to leverage existing infrastructure and expertise in food distribution. By combining forces, the program can streamline its operations and ensure that the food reaches the communities that need it most.

Expanding Reach and Impact

The Pacers' commitment to addressing food insecurity is evident in their belief that access to food is a fundamental right, not a luxury. With this guiding principle, the Drive & Dish program aims to expand its reach beyond Indianapolis, with plans to bring the initiative to more cities across Indiana in the coming years.Rachel Simon, the daughter of Pacers owner Herb Simon and a Vice Chair of the Pacers Foundation, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating that the program's goal is to make a tangible difference in the lives of families struggling with food insecurity.

Addressing a Pressing Need

According to Coach Carlisle, the decision to focus on food insecurity was driven by the stark reality that it affects a significant portion of the population in Marion County, with an estimated 25-30% of all people facing this challenge. By addressing this pressing issue, the Drive & Dish program aims to provide a lifeline to those in need, ensuring that families have access to the nourishment they require to thrive.The Pacers Foundation website serves as a valuable resource for individuals interested in getting involved with the Drive & Dish program. Additionally, those seeking more information can text "DRIVE" to 317-854-7707 to connect with the program's representatives.

Fostering Community Partnerships

The collaboration between the Pacers, the Colts, and Gleaners Food Bank exemplifies the power of community partnerships in tackling complex social issues. By pooling their resources and expertise, these organizations are able to create a more comprehensive and effective solution to address food insecurity in the region.This holistic approach not only provides immediate relief through food distribution but also lays the groundwork for long-term sustainability. By working together, the Drive & Dish program can continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the communities it serves, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of food security.