Plains Pantry Program: Tackling Food Insecurity in the Heartland
NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET — The Great Plains Food Bank's Kitchen Coalition initiative supplied nearly 40,000 meals over the last year to individuals statewide who were facing food insecurity. The initiative collaborates with nearby eateries and food service companies, utilizing excess cuisine to prepare meals for individuals facing significant needs. This project presently encompasses 10 locations spread throughout various cities within the state, such as Bismarck and Williston. Ashley Baker, who serves as the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator at the Great Plains Food Bank, mentions that this initiative, launched initially in 2023, provided an avenue for individuals to contribute positively to their community. "So it appeared as an opportunity to reinvest your money within the community by hiring local kitchens and caterers to prepare meals which were subsequently provided to nearby neighbors who needed fresh, home-cooked food. This concept of providing ready-to-eat m...