Community Foundation of Southern Indiana Awards $33,000 to Strengthen Local Food Pantries

The Community Foundation of Southern Indiana (CFSI) has recently allocated $33,000 in grants to bolster the efforts of six food pantries across Clark and Floyd counties.

 

Each organization received a $5,500 grant to enhance their capacity in addressing the pressing issue of food insecurity in the region.

 

Among the beneficiaries is the Center for Lay Ministries in Jeffersonville, which has experienced a significant uptick in demand.

 

In October alone, the center saw over 1,800 client visits, marking an increase of 300 compared to the same month in the previous year.

 

Executive Director Kara Brown noted that during the government shutdown, the center assisted individuals who typically do not rely on food pantries, including government employees.

 

She emphasized the community's recognition of the growing need and their proactive response.

 

Other recipients include Faith Harvest in Greenville, the First Baptist Church Hope Center in Charlestown, Hope Southern Indiana in New Albany, Kingdom Life Church in Sellersburg, and the NAFC Public Library Dare to Care Food Pantry in New Albany.

 

These grants are part of CFSI's ongoing commitment to support local organizations that provide essential services to the community.

 

Funding for these grants was made possible through CFSI's Community Impact Fund, which benefits from a $2-for-$1 matching opportunity through the Lilly Endowment's GIFT VIII initiative, available until December 31, 2025.

 

This matching opportunity amplifies the impact of donations, enabling the foundation to respond swiftly to urgent needs while investing in long-term solutions that promote opportunity, equity, and well-being across Southern Indiana.

 

For more information about CFSI or to learn how you can support food insecurity initiatives through the Community Impact Fund, visit their website.