Free community packs and fresh produce at Fonner Park on April 11

As Nebraskans and Iowans continue to struggle with the community and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many find themselves in the unfamiliar position of seeking emergency food assistance.

Food Bank for the Heartland is partnering with the Loaves and Fishes volunteers at Trinity United Methodist Church to host a free drive-up mobile pantry to assist food-insecure individuals and families in Hall County and the surrounding communities.

There are no requirements to attend.

Seven hundred and fifty community packs will be available, which are 28-pound prepackaged boxes filled with various nonperishable staple items like pasta and sauce, rice, beans, peanut butter and jelly, canned fruits and vegetables and others. Fresh produce and sliced bread will also be offered.

Volunteers are assembling the community packs at Food Bank for the Heartland. They are practicing social distancing in the volunteer center, and, as always volunteers are washing their hands and following food safety guidelines.

A drive-up distribution method is being used in Grand Island to prioritize the health and safety of the community during this pandemic. Individuals and families coming to the mobile pantry should stay in their vehicles. Volunteers will help direct traffic and load the food for them.

It's taking place Saturday, April 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Fonner Park. Just go to the south side of the Tom Dinsdale Automotive Cattle Barn in Grand Island.

“During this unprecedented time, Food Bank for the Heartland is working swiftly with our partners across Nebraska and western Iowa in the community to provide critical meals to our neighbors struggling with the community and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Brian Barks, President and CEO of Food Bank for the Heartland. “The need for emergency and supplemental food has increased significantly in recent weeks. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from individuals, organizations and companies across the Heartland.”