Mayor Mary Ferdon calls on businesses and the community foundation to join the City to ensure residents do not go hungry

Columbus, IN – Columbus, Ind. – Today, the City of Columbus, alongside community partners Love Chapel Foundation, Cummins Inc., Centra Credit Union, Toyota Material Handling North America and Heritage Fund of Bartholomew County announced they are providing $300,000 in emergency funding to Love Chapel to help address food insecurity in Bartholomew County.

This collaborative effort comes in response to the ongoing federal government shutdown, which has placed additional strain on families and individuals who rely on essential services like Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The funding will ensure that Love Chapel can continue providing critical resources, including meals and food assistance, to those most impacted.

More than 3,000 Bartholomew County residents have lost their SNAP benefits for at least part of November. “No one in our community should ever have to face hunger. Ensuring that every resident has access to food is not just an act of compassion, but a responsibility we all share as neighbors and as a city that cares,” said Mayor Mary Ferdon.

The SNAP program is a critical lifeline that provides funds to low-income individuals and families to purchase nutritious food. Without this support, many families will face increased hardship over the coming weeks, putting additional strain on many community organizations working to meet the new demand.

“Our commitment to breaking down barriers that hinder people’s ability to thrive is deeply rooted in our values,” said Jim Schacht, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility, Cummins Inc. “We’re proud to stand with the City in promoting this collective effort and joining hands with other organizations to make a meaningful difference for those most in need in our community.”

“With residents struggling to put food on the table in our community, we are honored to be able to partner with Columbus/Bartholomew County leaders to lend a hand to Love Chapel, which makes such tangible impact in the lives of so many people,” said Brett Wood, President and CEO of Toyota Material Handling North America. “We are determined to help where we can to direct critical funds where they are needed most, in alignment and partnership with local government and our corporate colleagues.”

Love Chapel is a charitable nonprofit organization that has been committed to serving neighbors in Bartholomew County for over 50 years, providing access to food, shelter and financial assistance.

“It is heartwarming to see the outpouring of love and care for our most vulnerable citizens,” said Kelly Daugherty, Executive Director of Love Chapel.

To learn more about Love Chapel’s mission and how to support families in the Bartholomew County community, please visit columbuslovechapel.com.