Freestore Foodbank
Freestore Foodbank provides a wide range of food assistance programs and services across 20 counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, distributing 37.7 million meals annually through a network of 540 partner agencies.
Programs and Services
Freestore Foodbank offers a wide range of food programs to address hunger and food insecurity in the community. Some key programs include Bea Taylor Market, Clinic Pantries, CSFP (Senior Box), Healthy Harvest Mobile Market, Kids Cafe, KIND Program, Liberty Street Market, Power Pack, Produce Pop Ups by Anthem, School Pantries, Summer Meals, and VA Clinic. Each program is designed to cater to specific needs, such as providing weekend food packs to children, mobile markets for fresh produce, and food distribution to seniors.
Annual Food Distribution
Freestore Foodbank distributes 37.7 million meals annually across 20 counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. This distribution is facilitated through a network of 540 community partner agencies, including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, community centers, and program sites. The extensive network ensures that food reaches individuals and families in need across multiple regions.
Special Events for Fundraising
To support fundraising and community engagement, Freestore Foodbank hosts several special events throughout the year. Key events include the Holiday Food Distribution, Hunger Walk & 5K Run, Rubber Duck Regatta, and Taste of the Bengals. These events not only raise funds critical to Freestore Foodbank's operations but also foster community spirit and awareness about hunger issues.
Training Programs for Employment
Freestore Foodbank operates programs like Cincinnati COOKS! and LIFT the TriState to provide job training and employment opportunities. Cincinnati COOKS! is a culinary job training program that equips participants with skills for the food service industry, while LIFT the TriState focuses on logistics training. Both programs aim to help individuals gain sustainable employment and improve their quality of life.
Emergency and Outreach Services
In addition to food distribution, Freestore Foodbank offers various emergency and outreach services. These include the Back On Track program, Benefits Enrollment, Birth Certificates & IDs, Representative Payee Program, Transportation Assistance, New Americans Project, and Shelter Diversion. These services are designed to support vulnerable populations, providing essential assistance to help stabilize their lives and promote self-sufficiency.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play an essential role in Freestore Foodbank's operations. The organization maintains a robust volunteer program that offers opportunities in food sorting, event support, and more. Volunteers contribute their time and energy to support various initiatives, helping to ensure that food and other services reach those in need efficiently.
Support for Veterans
Freestore Foodbank provides targeted support for veterans through its mobile pantry at the VA Medical Center. This service is designed to assist veterans by distributing food and ensuring they have access to necessary nutrition. By addressing the unique needs of veterans, Freestore Foodbank contributes to the well-being of those who have served the country.