Partnership Provides High-Quality Protein To Families In Need

In September, Health First Kosciusko partnered with Live Well Kosciusko and their Kosciusko Food Security Coalition to support a variety of initiatives, including “Meating the Need” in which a portion of the Health First Indiana money awarded to Live Well Kosciusko would be used to process and distribute meat to local pantries.
In a victory for local food security efforts, the Kosciusko Food Security Coalition successfully leveraged $10,000 of Health First Indiana money to provide nearly 7,000 pounds of high-quality protein to families in need across Kosciusko County, according to a news release from Health First Kosciusko.
The initiative centered on a strategic partnership with the Milford Food Bank, using the funds to purchase 6,720 pounds of ground pork. This bulk acquisition was a significant win, addressing a critical need for protein in emergency food supplies, which can often be lacking, the release states.
The impact was felt immediately across the community, as the substantial donation was efficiently distributed to the Milford Food Bank’s extensive network of 38 partner organizations. These partners, including various local food pantries, recovery homes and churches with community meal programs, ensured the ground pork reached individuals and families facing food insecurity in every corner of the county. By the end of December, the amount of ground pork will reach 3,300 families locally here in Kosciusko County.
With the recent government shutdown, thousands of people were impacted by food insecurity. With the help of Milford Food Bank, the Kosciusko Food Security Coalition was able to share this service with families in Kosciusko County to assist during this difficult time.
This story underscores the power of collaborative community action and strategic funding, demonstrating how the Kosciusko Food Security Coalition and Milford Food Bank effectively turn resources into direct support for a healthier, more food-secure Kosciusko County, according to the news release. To learn more about ongoing efforts and opportunities to help, visit the Live Well Kosciusko or Milford Food Bank websites.