Milk is one of the most desired staples for those who have a hard time affording groceries. But it’s one item many agencies have a hard time stocking because of transportation and storage issues.
Harvesters—The Community Food Network has teamed up with Hiland Dairy on a new partnership, Milk2MyPlate. This partnership provides a weekly supply of fresh, 2 percent low-fat milk at a discounted price to Harvesters’ agency partners that participate in the program. This strategy aligns with Harvesters’ mission of acquiring and distributing healthy food in its 26-county service area to people in need. Currently, more than 11,000 half-gallons of milk have been distributed through the program.
“According to the most recent hunger study, Hunger in America 2014, fresh dairy items are at the top of the list of items that pantry guests request but may not be available. Milk2MyPlate helps fill this gap for families in need,” said Valerie Nicholson-Watson, president and CEO, Harvesters. “We are pleased to be able to partner with Hiland Dairy on this new program and announce it during National Dairy Month,” she added.
“Over the last few years we have worked hard to increase the healthy choices for those that shop in our pantries. Gaining access to milk helps mothers provide for their children and seniors to remain healthy,” said Dustin Hardison, director of stabilization and housing, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, a Harvesters’ partner agency. “Just because someone is low income doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t have the same choices or options as everyone else,” he added.
Harvesters launched the Milk2MyPlate pilot program with 12 of its partner agencies earlier this year. The pilot program ran from February to May and resulted in more than 9,500 half gallons of milk being distributed to the following agencies:
• Operation Breakthrough, Kansas City, Mo.
• ECKAN, Ottawa, Kan.
• Hope Network, Raytown, Mo.
• Community Senior Citizens Center, Inc., Osawatomie, Kan.
• Hillside Opening Possibilities for Everyone, Inc., Kansas City, Mo.
• St Vincent de Paul – St Therese North, Parkville, Mo.
• Shawnee Community Services, Shawnee, Kan.
• Community Services League-Noland Rd, Independence, Mo.
• Community Assistance Council, Kansas City, Mo.
• Good Samaritan Center, Excelsior Springs, Mo.
• Bishop Sullivan Center, Kansas City, Mo.
• Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, Kansas City, Kan.
These agencies are continuing to participate in the Milk2MyPlate program and are currently receiving either 54 or 100 half gallons of milk each week.
The milk delivered to agencies has Hiland’s label and has 17 days until the stated “use-by” date. Since the milk is coming directly from the dairy, there is plenty of time to distribute it through the agency’s pantry.
“We are pleased to support the efforts of Harvesters through this partnership. We know there are many families struggling in the nutrition gap – hungry children in our community are missing out on milk’s nine essential nutrients. The ability to distribute fresh milk at a cost savings to area food pantries will provide a fresh food to more families giving them the ability for a healthier and active lifestyle,” said Mike Dorrian, Kansas City Division sales manager, Hiland Dairy.
– Story from Gene Hallinan, Harvesters