By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw
MILFORD — The Milford Food Bank’s new warehouse will soon be turning out more food more efficiently and to more partners.
Construction of the new 14,000-square-foot facility, which includes a packaging center and much-needed office space, will double its storage capacity.
The project cost nearly $1 million and was funded primarily with local personal donations, corporate sponsorships, and in-kind donations.
Operations Manager Bill Doege, who began that role three years after being a volunteer since the beginning, reflected for a moment Saturday at a ribbon-cutting for the warehouse.
“This is something that Bill Troup, our founder, and me dreamed about years and years ago and never thought it would ever come to full transition,” Doege said. “It’s just remarkable to see the community rally behind us and support us in what we’re doing every day.”
When the building is up and running, the number of groups served across northern Indiana and southern Michigan will rise from about 240 to 260.
“And then from there, we’ll just keep gradually adding them as they ask to come in,” Doege said.
Doege had a unique role in Saturday’s initial ribbon-cutting before a more traditional one took place.
The first items moved into the warehouse were a load of bar soap made in Wolcott, Ind., which was one of the first products ever delivered to the Food Bank when it first opened in 2010.
The first product’s arrival at the warehouse was led by Doege with the help of a forklift, which burst through a ribbon at the entrance.
Angie Deak, Development Manager for the food bank, talked about the need to grow and the to assist individuals and families facing food insecurity.
“Food insecurity continues to rise, and this expansion allows us to respond in a bigger and more efficient way,” Deak said.
“This building is not just about space; it’s about extending hope, strengthening partnerships, and sharing the love of Christ with more people than ever before,” she said.
Sterling Contracting, which had a big role in the project, issued a statement explaining its interest.
“We are humbled to have stood alongside local partners to help provide a permanent home for a mission that feeds the hungry and shares hope across Northern Indiana,” the company said.
This achievement was made possible by the generosity of several local companies that put the needs of our community first. Some of the key supporters include:
Smith Ready Mix demonstrated incredible hometown spirit by donating 50% of the concrete. Freedom Rebar & Concrete Supply, Inc., provided the essential material for the project by donating all rebar and concrete supplies. Kuert Concrete provided a significant price break, ensuring every donated dollar went further toward feeding families.
