Evansville, Ind. — Members of the Evansville Catholic community gathered at Good Shepherd Catholic Church to support a critical mission: packing 50,000 meals for families facing severe food shortages overseas. The effort, spearheaded by Cross Catholic Outreach along with several local organizations, aimed to provide essential nourishment to those in desperate need.
The meals, which consist of rice, beans, soy, vegetables, and vitamins, are simple yet provide the necessary nutrients for individuals struggling to access food. Dana Blanke, coordinator for the Knights of Columbus, emphasized the significance of such efforts. “It’s simple, but it’s exactly what people need when they don’t have enough to eat,” she said, acknowledging the vital role food donations play in times of crisis.
Blanke further noted that while the meals are being sent abroad, the initiative also highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity locally. “I thought especially a lot of families in need in our area would benefit from these efforts, with all the food pantries we have here,” she explained.
The collaboration between Cross Catholic Outreach and the local community underscores the power of collective action. As the volunteers packed thousands of meals, it became clear that this was not just about food—it was about providing a lifeline for families enduring hardship.
Blanke shared that the group looks forward to organizing more meal-packing events later this year, continuing their commitment to serving those in need both near and far.
