First Friday Memo - February 2025
From the desk of Jayne Wright-Velez, Executive Director
February 2025 / Issue 180
The Food Bank Hosted “Packing Parties” for Million Meals for MLK
Organizations came together to honor Dr. King’s call to serve! Food-packing parties took place at food banks across the state throughout January and early February in an extended celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service. Volunteers from Alexandria Lions Club, BOP Pollock, BOP Oakdale, Feeding Louisiana, National AmeriCorps, Rosenthal Montessori Elementary School, and Zeta Phi Beta packed food at the Food Bank of Central Louisiana on January 11 and February 4. Visit www.millionmealsmlk.org to learn more.
The Martin Foundation Funds Food Security Efforts
The Martin Foundation exists to exhibit charity and philanthropy by financially supporting organizations in their communities whose missions are in line with those of their family business and Christian faith. It is their intent to inspire philanthropic giving and service to future generations of the Martin family. The Martin Foundation has provided support to Food Bank programs for more than fifteen years.
American Legion Riders Support Seniors
American Legion Riders Post 145-Leesville raised $24,450 in funds to support the Senior Program in Vernon Parish. Since 2011, they have donated more than $265,000 to support the Food Bank of Central Louisiana’s Senior Program. We are so thankful for the dedication and support from the Legion Riders.
Louisiana Charities Trust Supports Multiple Food Bank Programs
Louisiana Charities Trust has once again partnered with the Food Bank of Central Louisiana in the fight against hunger in Cenla. Their support helps families access food through Mobile Pantries, the Senior Program, and the BackPack Program. We are so grateful for their ongoing dedication to our communities and neighbors.
Rapides Parish Coliseum Entertainment Center Food Drive
Thanks to everyone who brought food donations to the soft opening of the new Entertainment Center at Rapides Parish Coliseum. The January 11 event collected 339 pounds of non-perishable food items that will be distributed to neighbors visiting food bank programs.
CLECO Makes a $10,000 Gift to the Food Bank of Central Louisiana
As a Louisiana company, Cleco Power is committed to improving the quality of life in the communities they serve. Their community investment priorities include STEM programming, education, youth programming, health and wellness, low income, diversity and causes that their employees support.
The Food Bank Receives a $10,000 Gift from DT Midstream
DT Midstream is an owner, operator and developer of natural gas pipelines, storage and gathering systems, compression, treatment and surface facilities. DT Midstream believes in putting their energy into making a positive difference in the places where they live, work and operate. We are so grateful for their support.
Healthy Blue Awards the Food Bank a Grant of $12,000
Healthy Blue is a low- or no-cost health plan for Medicaid offered through the WellPoint Corporation. They help people get the care they need like doctor visits, medicines, therapy and more. This grant will help ensure that Central Louisiana neighbors have food for good health.
Brookshire’s Supports the Food Bank
At Brookshire Grocery Company, the number one focus is people. They are dedicated to making a difference in their stores and the communities they serve. Each year, Brookshire’s donates back to communities through organizations that support hunger relief, education, health, family wellbeing, first responders, military, and veterans. Brookshire’s grant of $3,539 in gift cards will purchase many meals for Cenla families.
Year-End Giving Statements
Donors should by now have received their annual giving statements for 2024 from the Food Bank. If you made a donation and did not receive an annual giving statement, or if you have any questions, please call Carrie Gill at 318-445-2773 ext. 221. We are thankful for your continued support.
