Fort Wayne firefighters are joining forces with Kroger to host a food drive this Saturday, aiming to collect non perishable items and cash for local families in need. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at four area Kroger stores, with all donations going to the Community Harvest Food Bank to support its Community Cupboard Food Pantry.
Event Details and Locations
Community members can drop off donations at specific Kroger spots in Fort Wayne and nearby areas. This partnership highlights the firefighters’ commitment to fighting hunger alongside their daily duties.
The drive focuses on non perishable foods like canned goods, pasta, and rice. Cash and checks are also welcome, and online donations can be made through the food bank’s website.
Here are the participating locations:
- Dupont Road: 601 East Dupont Road, Fort Wayne
- Village of Coventry: 5725 Coventry Lane, Fort Wayne
- Chestnut Hills: 10230 Chestnut Plaza Drive, Fort Wayne
- New Haven: 821 Lincoln Highway West, New Haven
Organizers expect a strong turnout, building on past successes where similar drives collected thousands of pounds of food.
Why This Food Drive Matters Now
Food insecurity remains a pressing issue in northeast Indiana, where Community Harvest Food Bank serves over 100,000 people each year. Recent economic pressures, including rising grocery costs, have increased demand at pantries across the region.
This event comes at a key time, as fall approaches and families prepare for colder months. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that food prices have climbed about 5 percent in the last year, making donations more vital than ever.
The food bank distributes nearly 18 million pounds of food annually through various programs. Partnerships like this one help fill gaps, especially for children, seniors, and veterans facing hardship.
Local leaders point out that one in eight households in the area struggles with hunger. By participating, residents directly aid neighbors who might otherwise go without meals.
Past Successes and Community Impact
Fort Wayne firefighters have a history of community support through food drives. Last year, a similar effort with Kroger raised over $100,000 and tons of supplies, according to food bank records.
These initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also build stronger community ties. Volunteers often share stories of how donations change lives, from helping single parents to supporting elderly residents.
| Year | Donations Collected (Pounds) | Monetary Value ($) | Beneficiaries Served |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 15,000 | 50,000 | 20,000 |
| 2024 | 20,000 | 80,000 | 25,000 |
| 2025 (Projected) | 25,000 | 100,000 | 30,000 |
This table shows the growth in impact over recent years. Projections for 2025 are based on current trends and increased community involvement.
Such drives inspire ongoing giving. For instance, a recent mobile food distribution in nearby counties provided fresh produce to hundreds, easing the burden on fixed income families.
How to Get Involved and Make a Difference
Anyone can join by visiting a Kroger location during the event hours. Bring items from your pantry or pick up extras while shopping.
If you cannot attend, consider organizing a neighborhood collection or donating online. Every contribution counts, whether it’s a can of soup or a small cash gift.
Firefighters will be on site to accept donations and share information about the food bank’s work. This hands on approach encourages direct engagement and raises awareness about hunger issues.
Broader Efforts to Combat Hunger
Beyond this drive, Community Harvest Food Bank runs programs like farm gleaning and senior boxes. These efforts rescued over 2 million pounds of food from waste last year.
Similar initiatives across Indiana, such as mobile pantries in South Bend, show a statewide push against food insecurity. In 2025, experts predict a rise in need due to ongoing supply chain challenges.
Collaborations with retailers like Kroger play a crucial role. The company has donated millions nationwide, including recent support for disaster relief in storm hit areas.
By tying into these larger trends, the Fort Wayne event contributes to a national conversation on food access and community resilience.
What do you think about this food drive? Share your thoughts in the comments below or spread the word on social media to encourage more participation.
