LEXINGTON, Ky. — God’s Pantry Food Bank, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing hunger and food insecurity in Kentucky, broke ground on its new food bank in Lexington, Kentucky. When complete, the building renovation and expansion will support more than 500 partner agencies in 50 counties in Central and Eastern Kentucky counties. At the event, Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman joined local officials and leaders of God’s Pantry Food Bank to recognize the expansion of its new food bank in the Blue Grass Business Park.
“Every Kentuckian has the right to access nutritious food,” said Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman. “For over six decades, God’s Pantry Food Bank has been a leader in the fight against hunger. Today’s groundbreaking is another step in ensuring families in Central and Eastern Kentucky have what they need to thrive.”
“As we break ground on our new food bank in Lexington, Kentucky, we are taking a significant step forward in our mission to combat hunger and food insecurity,” said Michael Halligan, CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank. “This new facility represents our commitment to reducing hunger in Kentucky Communities and supporting our network of partner agencies across 50 counties.”
With a deep commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of society, God’s Pantry Food Bank has been at the forefront of the fight against hunger for more than 65 years. Since its establishment, the organization has gathered and distributed enough food to create more than 500 million meals to individuals and families throughout Central and Eastern Kentucky, ensuring that no one goes hungry.
The 127,232 square-foot building by Denham-Blythe will be located at 2201 Innovation Drive in the Blue Grass Business Park. The renovated building will include an updated office area, expanded shipping and receiving offices, and an improved reception area. The renovation will also include the installation of a freezer and cooler space, a produce cooler, and a conditioned receiving dock, all of which will aid in increasing the distribution of fresh, healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy items.
“God’s Pantry is very important to our city and our state,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “The city strongly supports their work, and we have partnered with them on several projects. We welcome this new food bank and thank God’s Pantry for everything they do to fight food insecurity.”
“We all know that more people in our communities are experiencing hunger and food insecurity as costs have risen not just for food but rent, medicine, utilities, and so much more,” said Charlie Lanter, commissioner of Lexington Housing Advocacy & Community Development. “This new food bank is an important step in ensuring God’s Pantry can keep up with those needs now and into the future.”
“I am proud to witness this groundbreaking moment for God’s Pantry Food Bank. As a former board president, I have seen the unwavering dedication of this organization to fight hunger in Kentucky for many years,” said Steve Byars, Board of Directors Past President. “This new food bank signifies our relentless commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need.”
In the fiscal year 2023, God’s Pantry Food Bank distributed more than 43 million pounds of food, and the new food bank will enhance its capacity to serve communities in Central and Eastern Kentucky. Located in a more visible and accessible location, the new food bank will enhance operational efficiency and raise awareness about hunger relief efforts. The building will also showcase the rich history of God’s Pantry Food Bank, highlighting the journey and impact we have made since 1955.
Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick said, “This new facility for God’s Pantry will provide a big step in advancing the organization’s efforts to combat hunger across Kentucky. No one should have to worry about where their next meal might be coming from, and this expansion will ensure that many families have access to much-needed food thanks to God’s Pantry and more than 500 partner organizations.”
“As a proud partner agency of God’s Pantry Food Bank, AMEN House is thrilled to witness the groundbreaking of their new headquarters in Lexington. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the fight against hunger in our region,” said Michele Carlisle, Executive Director of AMEN House. “God’s Pantry Food Bank has been a steadfast ally, ensuring our community members have access to the nourishment they need. With the new facility, we look forward to even greater collaboration and impact as we work together to alleviate food insecurity and build a stronger, more resilient Kentucky.”
Construction is expected to be completed by October 2024.
