In striving to provide nutritious food to neighbors in need, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank operates an extensive Fresh Express Program that directly supports low-income communities. Since these products have a short shelf life, the Food Bank collaborates with partner agencies to distribute more than 10 million pounds of fresh produce and dairy products received annually from both local and national donors directly to neighbors in need.
This year-round program provides nutritious foods to more than 14,000 individuals at 99 distribution sites in 21 counties. Depending on the harvest season, volunteers distribute a variety of perishable items such as potatoes, onions, lettuce, apples, strawberries and yogurt. Last year, nearly 10.2 million pounds of produce and 2.2 million servings of fresh milk were distributed.
The Fresh Express Program follows income guidelines to determine eligibility. There are currently five distribution sites at different times of the month in Lancaster County, and preregistration is required.
Distributions will take place as follows: fourth Friday of the month from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Park Elementary School, 50 S. Sixth St., Columbia (717-684-1497); second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon at The Factory Ministries, 3293 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster (717-687-9594); Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Jean Polite Food Bank at Bethel AME Church, 512 E. Strawberry St., Lancaster (717-393-8379); second and fourth Wednesdays of the month from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Crispus Attucks Community Center, 401 Howard Ave., Lancaster (717-394-6604); and the second Friday of the month from 10:45 a.m. to noon at the Spanish American Civic Association, 545 Pershing Ave., Lancaster (717-397-6267).
For more information, readers may contact the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank at 717-564-1700.
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