Regional Food Bank opens massive distribution center in Montgomery

In the United States, specifically in New York, the Regional Food Bank inaugurated a newly built distribution center in Montgomery on December 4, 2024. This 50,000-square-foot facility is a significant development aimed at addressing the rising food insecurity in the Hudson Valley region. The food bank aims to extend its service reach to approximately 180,000 individuals across six counties, reflecting an increased demand for food assistance services following the pandemic. Tom Nardacci, the CEO of Regional Food Bank, highlighted the escalation in the need for food bank resources, tracing it back to economic challenges such as inflation and underemployment that have emerged in the wake of the pandemic. The facility features expanded cold storage and sorting areas, enabling the food bank to enhance its operations and efficiency in food distribution. Last year, the organization successfully distributed nearly 48 million pounds of food through over 1,000 partner food pantries across 23 New York counties. Funding for this new center stemmed from a combination of public and private sources, including a $10.7 million community development block grant, nearly $9 million in private donations, and support from local economic development councils. The collaborative effort is designed to alleviate food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable populations, including students, seniors, and low-income families. State officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul and Housing and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas, were present at the grand opening ceremony and emphasized the critical need for accessible food resources in the local community. They noted that the mission of the food bank is pertinent as families frequently face difficult choices between necessities such as rent and food. This dedication to providing essential nutrition is aimed at ensuring communities in the Hudson Valley can rely on the food bank for support. The construction of the facility provided job opportunities to local labor, showcasing a commitment to community development alongside hunger alleviation. As the ceremony concluded, various stakeholders and supporters of the food bank were acknowledged for their contributions. Of particular note was Molly Nicol, the former CEO, credited with being a driving force behind the new facility. Sandra Gerry, from Sullivan 180, emphasized the food bank’s role in educating children about nutrition and healthy eating choices, further reinforcing the multi-faceted approach toward combating food insecurity in the region. The new distribution center is anticipated to serve as a cornerstone for food access, improving the quality of life for families and individuals throughout the Hudson Valley.