Mobile Marketplace Provides Fresh, Nutritious Food to the Region

The Food Bank of Northwest Indiana is excited to announce Mobile Marketplace, a mobile food distribution program to provide greater food access for individuals and families across Lake and Porter counties. Formerly known as Pantry on the Go, the inaugural Mobile Marketplace will take place Wednesday, March 28 from 4:00 to 6:00pm at New Creation Ministry in Highland (9738 Fifth Street).

“This program is a critical effort to ensure every person in our community has access to the nutrition they need and deserve,” said Steve Beekman, executive director of the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. “Between growing food deserts, a lack of reliable transportation and financial limitations, many of our neighbors face countless obstacles to accessing good, nutritious food. Mobile Marketplace will help provide families and communities with the fresh, wholesome food they need to thrive.”

Mobile Marketplace will travel to a different community each week, distributing healthy food to children, adults, and seniors across the Region. Often, the Food Bank partners with community organizations to supply additional services and resources to people attending Mobile Marketplace.

“Many people have needs in addition to healthy food assistance, and each person and family we serve has their own unique circumstance,” said Beekman. “We want to support the whole person, not just a single need. So it’s important that we work with our partners in the community to provide more resources and supportive services to people through Mobile Marketplace, and we’re grateful to be part of a community that steps up to support this cause.”

Mobile Marketplace locations may include churches, community centers, schools and after school programs, and any other community site where individuals and families may have a need for the service. Each partner site plays a critical role by providing volunteer support and raising awareness of the program through targeted outreach.

“We are grateful to the Food Bank for bringing this program to the Highland community, and allowing us to help meet this basic need in our community,” said Jose Burgos, pastor of New Creation Ministry. “This program allows us to demonstrate the love we have for our neighbors in a very tangible and meaningful way.”

Each Mobile Marketplace will provide a variety of perishable and non-perishable foods, including produce, proteins, grains, dairy and snack items. The program is free of charge and open to any Northwest Indiana resident. Food is provided on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last, and participants are asked to bring a photo ID and bags to carry items.

For more information and an up-to-date schedule, visit foodbanknwi.org/marketplace.