Food bank plans temporary move for warehouse renovation

Second Harvest plans multi-million dollar investment for safe storage and distribution of food.
Ben Anderson pumps up the pallet jack to make it over a hump in the floor at the Second Harvest Food Bank's warehouse Wednesday, March 6, 2024. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

Credit: Bill Lackey

Credit: Bill Lackey

Ben Anderson pumps up the pallet jack to make it over a hump in the floor at the Second Harvest Food Bank's warehouse Wednesday, March 6, 2024. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

The Second Harvest Food Bank will move to a temporary location for three months because of renovations to the current building floor, the first step in an “extensive project” to enhance the facility.

“This comprehensive initiative will encompass a range of much-needed upgrades, representing a multi-million dollar investment spanning several years,” said Development Director Jennifer Brunner. “This initiative is part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to ensuring a safer environment for the collection, storage, and distribution of food to neighbors in need.”

The sagging floor at the Second Harvest Food Bank's warehouse Wednesday, March 6, 2024. BILL LACKEY/STAFF

Credit: Bill Lackey

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Credit: Bill Lackey

The project aims to improve safety and efficiency in Second Harvest’s warehouse operations at 20 N. Murray St. It will start by replacing 30,000 square feet of damaged flooring in the warehouse, which is possible from the support of individual and foundation donors.

“The improved safety and streamlined operations resulting from this project will have a direct and positive impact on the individuals and families who rely on us for assistance, ensuring that we can continue to fulfill our mission of combating hunger and nourishing our community,” said Andy Irick, executive director.

The project will begin in late March and is expected to last 90 days. During these months, warehouse operations will be temporarily relocated to an offsite facility that will have no direct services and only serve as a hub for receiving, storing and distributing food to mobile units and partner agencies.

The final day for onsite distributions and OrderAhead from the current location will be March 21. After that date, the food bank will continue to provide help through its 60 partner agencies and mobile distributions in the tri-county area to make sure community members “receive the essential resources needed to address the heightened demand.”

“We understand the importance of our services, especially during this transitional phase, and assure you that we are dedicated to minimizing interruptions in support for those who rely on us,” Irick said.

For updated information, people are encouraged to stay connected through Second Harvest’s Facebook page and website. For specific information, call the office at 937-325-8715.

Second Harvest, a member of Feeding America and the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, services Champaign, Clark and Logan Counties by sourcing, collecting, storing and distributing about 6 million pounds of food to 60 nonprofit member agencies who feed those in need.

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