RUTLAND—On Dec. 3, the Hannaford Charitable Foundation announced a $75,000 donation to Vermont Foodbank in support of its new 24,000 square foot distribution center, which allows the Foodbank to properly store and distribute more fresh produce throughout Rutland County to nearly 15,000 individuals and families in need.
The donation supports the purchase of equipment that will enable the Foodbank to acquire and distribute more fresh and perishable product. Previously, items were limited to non-perishable goods and shelf-stable produce.
The Rutland Distribution Center will aid the Vermont Foodbank in its goal of distributing 11 million pounds of food, including 2 million pounds of fresh produce, to Vermont residents in 2016. It aims to ensure that the 24 percent of Rutland residents who visit a food shelf or meal site each year will have access to healthy food options. It is located at 92 Park Street.