FORT WAYNE, Ind. – On Tuesday, Sept. 15, Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana will hold its annual Harvest for Hope fundraiser, a sold‑out evening dedicated to combating hunger in the region. The event, scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Parkview Mirro Center (10622 Parkview Plaza Drive), has set an ambitious goal of raising $200,000.
Why the fundraiser matters
Last year the food bank distributed more than 11 million pounds of food to over 99,000 unique individuals throughout its nine‑county service area. Those numbers illustrate the persistent need for reliable food assistance in northeast Indiana, especially as families continue to face rising costs of living.
President and CEO Carmen Cumberland explained that the money raised at Harvest for Hope will directly support the organization’s core mission: providing nutritious meals to people experiencing food insecurity. “Every dollar we collect helps us put food on the table for a neighbor who might otherwise go without,” Cumberland said.
What attendees can expect
Guests will enjoy a buffet dinner, live music from the Wildheart Band, and a series of silent and live auctions featuring donated items from local businesses. The event’s sold‑out status reflects strong community backing, and organizers hope that the enthusiastic turnout will translate into generous contributions.
Board Chair Angie Grant highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the fundraiser. “Our volunteers, donors, and partners all share a common purpose – to ensure that no family in our community has to wonder where their next meal will come from,” Grant noted.
Community impact and future outlook
Community Harvest Food Bank, founded in 1983, is a member of Feeding America and Feeding Indiana’s Hungry. Its long‑standing partnership with these national networks enables the organization to leverage bulk purchasing power and distribution efficiencies, stretching every donated dollar further.
With the $200,000 target, the food bank plans to expand its mobile pantry routes, increase the number of grocery‑store partnerships, and enhance nutrition education programs for children and seniors. Those initiatives align with the broader goal of not only feeding hungry families but also empowering them to make healthier food choices.
Local businesses have already shown support, contributing auction items and sponsoring portions of the dinner. Their involvement underscores the belief that a thriving community is built on mutual aid and shared responsibility.
As the evening unfolds, organizers will provide updates on fundraising progress via social media, encouraging those who cannot attend to donate online. The community’s response will be a clear indicator of how Fort Wayne residents prioritize caring for one another in challenging times.
For more information about the Harvest for Hope event or to make a donation, visit the Community Harvest Food Bank website or call the organization directly.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
