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Milford Food Bank receives KREMC Operation Round-Up Grant

Milford Food Bank Receives Generous Support from KREMC, Bolstering Community Efforts Against Hunger

In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, the Milford Food Bank in Milford, Indiana, has recently been the recipient of a significant donation from the Kosciusko Rural Electric Membership Corporation (KREMC). This contribution comes at a critical time when food insecurity continues to affect families across the region, highlighting the vital role that local organizations play in supporting those in need. The donation, which includes both financial aid and essential supplies, is poised to make a tangible difference in the lives of many residents, ensuring that no one in the community goes without basic necessities.

The Milford Food Bank, a cornerstone of the small town of Milford, has been serving the local population for over two decades. Established in the early 2000s as a response to growing economic challenges in rural Indiana, the food bank operates out of a modest facility on the outskirts of town. It provides groceries, fresh produce, and non-perishable items to hundreds of families each month. Volunteers, many of whom are local residents themselves, dedicate countless hours to sorting donations, packing boxes, and distributing aid. The organization's mission is simple yet profound: to alleviate hunger and promote self-sufficiency among low-income households, the elderly, and those facing unexpected hardships such as job loss or medical emergencies.

KREMC's involvement in this initiative underscores the cooperative's long-standing commitment to community service. As a member-owned electric utility serving thousands of homes and businesses in Kosciusko and surrounding counties, KREMC has a history of giving back through various philanthropic efforts. This particular donation is part of their broader "Operation Round Up" program, where members voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the extra cents going toward charitable causes. Over the years, this program has amassed substantial funds, which are then distributed to local nonprofits like food banks, schools, and emergency services.

According to representatives from KREMC, the decision to support the Milford Food Bank was driven by a recognition of the increasing demand for food assistance in the area. "We've seen firsthand how economic pressures, including rising costs of living and inflation, have strained families in our service area," said a KREMC spokesperson during the presentation ceremony. "By partnering with the Milford Food Bank, we're not just providing immediate relief; we're investing in the long-term well-being of our community. It's about neighbors helping neighbors, which is at the core of what KREMC stands for."

The donation itself is multifaceted, designed to address both short-term needs and sustainable growth for the food bank. Financially, KREMC contributed a check for $5,000, which will be used to purchase bulk items such as canned goods, rice, pasta, and hygiene products—essentials that are often in high demand but short supply. In addition to the monetary gift, KREMC organized a drive among its employees and members, collecting over 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food items. These include everything from peanut butter and jelly to cereal and canned vegetables, all of which were delivered in a convoy of utility trucks to the food bank's doorstep. The event was marked by a small gathering of volunteers, KREMC staff, and local dignitaries, turning what could have been a routine handover into a celebration of community spirit.

For the Milford Food Bank, this influx of support couldn't have come at a better time. The organization has reported a 25% increase in the number of families seeking assistance over the past year, attributed to factors like the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and fluctuating employment rates in the agricultural sector that dominates the local economy. "We're incredibly grateful to KREMC for their generosity," shared the food bank's director, who has been with the organization since its inception. "This donation allows us to expand our reach and ensure that our shelves remain stocked, especially as we head into the holiday season when demand typically spikes. It's more than just food; it's hope and stability for those who need it most."

To understand the broader impact, it's essential to consider the context of food insecurity in rural Indiana. According to state reports, Kosciusko County, where Milford is located, faces higher-than-average rates of poverty compared to urban areas, with many residents relying on seasonal work in farming or manufacturing. Food banks like Milford's serve as a lifeline, often partnering with national organizations such as Feeding America to amplify their efforts. However, local contributions like KREMC's are crucial because they address hyper-local needs that larger entities might overlook. For instance, the food bank tailors its distributions to include culturally relevant items for the area's diverse population, including Hispanic and Amish communities, ensuring that aid is both accessible and appropriate.

This isn't the first time KREMC has stepped up for the Milford Food Bank. Historical records show that the cooperative has been a consistent supporter, providing grants for facility upgrades in 2018 and volunteering manpower during peak distribution periods. Such ongoing partnerships foster a sense of continuity and trust within the community. One volunteer recounted a story of a single mother who, after losing her job, relied on the food bank for months. "Thanks to donations like this, she was able to feed her kids nutritious meals while getting back on her feet," the volunteer said. "It's stories like these that remind us why we do what we do."

Looking ahead, the Milford Food Bank plans to use part of the donation to launch new initiatives aimed at long-term food security. These include educational workshops on budgeting and nutrition, as well as a community garden project that will allow participants to grow their own produce. KREMC has expressed interest in collaborating on these efforts, potentially providing expertise in energy-efficient farming techniques or even sponsoring solar-powered irrigation systems for the garden. "We're excited about the possibilities," the KREMC spokesperson added. "This is just the beginning of what we hope will be an even stronger alliance."

The ceremony itself was a poignant reminder of the power of collective action. Attendees shared laughs and stories over coffee and donuts—many of which were donated by local businesses eager to join the cause. Children from nearby schools participated by creating thank-you cards, adding a touch of youthful enthusiasm to the proceedings. In a world often dominated by headlines of division, events like this serve as a beacon of unity, showing how businesses, nonprofits, and individuals can come together to tackle pressing issues.

Beyond the immediate benefits, this donation highlights a larger trend in corporate social responsibility, particularly among rural cooperatives. KREMC's model of member-driven philanthropy could inspire similar organizations nationwide. In Indiana alone, rural electric cooperatives serve over a million residents, and if more adopted programs like Operation Round Up, the cumulative impact on hunger relief could be transformative.

For those interested in getting involved, the Milford Food Bank welcomes volunteers and additional donations year-round. Their website provides details on upcoming drives and ways to contribute, emphasizing that even small acts can make a big difference. As the director aptly put it, "Every can, every dollar, every hour volunteered builds a stronger community."

In conclusion, KREMC's generous support to the Milford Food Bank is more than a one-time gift; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of generosity in rural America. As winter approaches and economic uncertainties persist, such partnerships ensure that no family is left behind. This story of giving not only addresses immediate needs but also sows the seeds for a more resilient future, proving that when communities unite, hunger doesn't stand a chance.

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Read the Full Goshen News, Ind. Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/milford-food-bank-receives-kremc-022100659.html ]