Bloomington, Indiana – Hoosier Hills Food Bank (HHFB), a critical provider of hunger relief services in southern Indiana, has officially surpassed a historic milestone—more than 100 million pounds of food distributed since its founding in 1982. This major achievement comes just ahead of a special food distribution event targeting vulnerable children and senior citizens this Friday, June 27.
The nonprofit, which has been combating hunger across six Indiana counties for over four decades, reached the 100 million pound mark on Wednesday, June 25. The milestone was hit after HHFB recorded distributing a total of 2,328,492 pounds of food so far in 2025, bringing its all-time total to 100,017,915 pounds.
“I’m not sure our founders could have imagined 100 million pounds of food going through our doors back in 1982, and while I’m sure they’d be saddened that food insecurity and food waste are still such prevalent problems, they would be relieved to know that we are still here to support people facing hunger,” said HHFB Executive Director Julio Alonso.
This historic accomplishment, however, comes during a challenging time for food banks across the country. Food insecurity rates are reaching levels not seen in nearly ten years, with inflation and cuts to public support programs putting additional strain on families and the nonprofits that serve them. At the same time, HHFB has seen its food distribution numbers fall slightly behind last year’s pace, with an 8% decrease in pounds distributed compared to the same period in 2024.
“This is a difficult time. Food insecurity is at the highest level in nearly a decade and public support is being scaled back with unprecedented cuts to food assistance and health care access being contemplated,” said Alonso. “Non-profit organizations and private donors have to step up to avoid a potential hunger crisis. We intend to continue doing our part as long as we have the support to do so.”
HHFB’s upcoming June 27 distribution will directly serve children and senior citizens who are most affected by the rising cost of groceries and the discontinuation of certain federal aid programs, including Sun Bucks SNAP benefits. Each recipient will receive a box containing more than a week’s worth of food—carefully tailored to the nutritional needs of kids and older adults. These packages will include a mix of fresh produce, dairy, and meat along with shelf-stable goods such as low-sodium canned items and 100% juice.
The summer season can be particularly difficult for families who rely on school meals to help feed their children. Seniors living on fixed incomes are also among the most vulnerable, especially when facing high medical costs and housing challenges. HHFB’s targeted distributions aim to ease some of this pressure.
Despite the current obstacles, including a reduction in federal food commodity supplies and less purchasing power due to rising food prices, HHFB continues to serve a wide region. The organization currently provides around 5.8 million pounds of food annually through a network of more than 80 partner agencies and 12 monthly direct distribution programs. Its reach spans Brown, Lawrence, Orange, Owen, Martin, and Monroe counties.
A recent survey conducted among HHFB’s partner agencies shows just how much demand has grown. Nearly half—48%—reported serving more people than the previous year, and 45% said those numbers were still climbing.
While this week’s 100 million pound milestone is a proud moment, it’s also a reminder of how deep the need continues to run. With hunger and economic pressure affecting more households, HHFB remains committed to its mission—and urges the community to help sustain its efforts.
For those wishing to support HHFB through donations, volunteering, or food drives, more information can be found on the organization’s official website.
As the summer stretches on and economic uncertainty continues, Hoosier Hills Food Bank is preparing to do what it has done for over 40 years: feed families, care for the most vulnerable, and stand as a steady source of hope in challenging times.
