Treasure Valley Foods has stepped up to fill the needs of millions of Americans experiencing hunger challenges due to the economy by forming a unique partnership with local churches that operates much like a food cooperative. "We reached back into the heritage of our nation with a co-op approach by partnering with groups of local volunteers in churches who can organize local food distributions," says Randy Howard, the national director for Treasure Valley's "Good Faith Food Box" program. Treasure Valley brings 16 years of experience and a vast national network of food distribution as a partner to local churches that want to provide a way that people can get real help with their groceries without standing in line for food give aways. The church provides volunteer labor and location, people can choose from a menu of food that changes each month, and they double their food value- a $35 box of food has a retail value of at least $65. Treasure Valley puts together a pre-packed box of food that is easy for the church to manage, filled with brand name items-- enough food for a family of 4 for 6 meals.
With the real unemployment rate topping 15% in many places, and many people struggling with the impacts of both unemployment and underemployment, local churches have found a trustworthy partner in Treasure Valley Foods of Boise, Idaho. Local benevolence committees and church leaders have been searching for a way to provide sustainable food resources to families that are above and below the public assistance line. According to a Virginia pastor, Ron Klabunde, "The food pantry route doesn't always fit the bill-- lots of families are hesitant to show up for a free distribution, and we continually have to find ways to refill our cupboards-- we need a more sustainable and dignity filled approach." The need is real for those affected by unemployment or underemployment. A pastor in the DC area, David Baird of the Life Church, puts it this way, "families are being squeezed on both sides by reduced hours at work and higher food prices...The Good Faith Box gets an A+ for their approach to creating a sustainable program."
Local churches aren't immune for the impacts of the economy either. Treasure Valley supports the food work of the local church by making a monthly donation to each participating church. This donation is often put into additional food for those who are participating and ensures that the local church doesn't incur costs in the program. It is really a valuable resource for families, singles and seniors who may be trying to trim their budget, or make up for lost income. Orders are placed once each month and the food arrives by refrigerated truck a couple of weeks later. Local churches reach out to their communities bring awareness about the program to social service agencies.
As they work together, Good Faith and local churches are making a real difference for people in each community. This effort is a great example of an innovative approach to solving a community problem, and represents "community innovation at its best-- both groups are doing the thing at which they are most effective" according to David Mills, Founder of Cause2Innovate, a national innovation expert. Consumers and local churches can learn more and view a menu by visiting http://goodfaithfoodbox.org .
About Us: The Good Faith Food Box program is offered through a partnership between local churches and Treasure Valley Food Group of Boise Idaho. Treasure Valley has a national footprint in tens of thousands of food stores with a strong line-up of diverse and quality food products that extend the food resources of families.
Media Contact: Eastern Seaboard: David Mills (888) 652-0119 Midwest and Western: Randy Howard (855) 809-5219 Good Faith Food Box Program, Treasure Valley Food Group Email: Randy@treasurevalley.com
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