Refrigerated truck will help Channel One deliver fresh produce to those in need

Channel One Regional Food Bank has a new weapon in the fight against hunger in southeast Minnesota.

The Rochester-based nonprofit has added a refrigerated box truck, thanks to a grant from the Mardag Foundation. The new truck will aid in the acquisition and distribution of food to low-income individuals struggling with hunger in our area.  

“The box truck comes at a crucial time, during the summer months, when produce deliveries are at an all time high,” said Linda Lovik, the organization's interim director. “We are so grateful for Mardag Foundation’s support. We now have the ability to deliver more nutritious, fresh produce to clients throughout our service area.” 

The Mardag Foundation offers grants to organizations working to improve the quality of life in Minnesota for children, seniors and other at-risk populations, and for programs in education and arts. It awarded a total of $2.4 million in grants in 2016.

Channel One serves 14 counties in the region, making it the largest hunger relief organization in southeast Minnesota. In the 2015-16 fiscal year, the nonprofit distributed approximately 10 million pounds of food to people in need.

Learn more about the organization's mission. 

Cover photo courtesy Channel One