Fargo, ND – On Thursday, Oct. 22, Great Plains Food Bank strengthened its partnership with the New Life Center by donating a brand‑new refrigerated truck. The vehicle, paid for with a grant from Feeding America, will allow the center to pick up perishable food from multiple locations throughout the metro area, a capability it previously lacked.
Enhanced Capacity for Food Distribution
New Life Center has relied on volunteers to transport food in the past, limiting the volume and variety of items it could accept. With the refrigerated truck, the organization can now safely collect fresh produce, dairy, and meat from a broader network of donors, ensuring that more families receive nutritious meals.
“It also gives us the opportunity to pick up more food from neighbors throughout the metro, which as we continue to grow, the need for receiving more food continues to grow,” said Kevin Carpenter, operations manager at New Life Center. “The truck and the gas gift cards will help us increase our capacity and serve more families in need.”
Support from Great Plains Food Bank
In addition to the truck, Great Plains Food Bank provided $2,000 in gas gift cards to offset operating costs for the New Life Center’s expanded routes. The donation reflects Great Plains’ commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region and highlights the importance of collaboration among local nonprofits.
Ann Priefel, CEO of Great Plains Food Bank, praised New Life Center as one of the organization’s “best community partners,” noting that the partnership exemplifies how shared resources can amplify impact for vulnerable populations.
Feeding America Grant Enables the Purchase
The refrigerated truck was purchased with a grant from Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger‑relief network. The grant underscores the broader national effort to improve food‑distribution infrastructure, especially in communities where demand is rising.
Feeding America’s support aligns with its mission to strengthen the supply chain for food banks and partner agencies, ensuring that perishable items reach those who need them before spoilage.
What This Means for Fargo Families
With the new vehicle, New Life Center can respond more quickly to emergencies, expand its regular pick‑up schedule, and reduce reliance on volunteer‑driven transport. Families facing food insecurity can expect a steadier flow of fresh, healthy options, helping to alleviate the nutritional gaps that often accompany economic hardship.
The donation also serves as a reminder of the vital role that faith‑based and community‑focused organizations play in supporting traditional families and upholding the values of personal responsibility and charitable service.
Looking Ahead
Both Great Plains Food Bank and New Life Center plan to continue their collaborative efforts, seeking additional grant opportunities and community support to further expand food‑security programs throughout the Fargo‑Moorhead area.
Residents interested in volunteering, donating food, or learning more about the partnership can contact New Life Center directly or visit Great Plains Food Bank’s website.
Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.
