WNDU’s Donate to Cultivate campaign raises over $500,000 for South Bend food banks, according to station reports
SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) — WNDU’s Donate to Cultivate campaign has raised more than $500,000 for local food banks as of October 2023, according to the station’s latest update. The initiative, which began in 2022, has partnered with organizations like the South Bend Food Bank and the Northern Indiana Food Bank to address food insecurity in the region. “This campaign has become a vital lifeline for families facing hardship,” said WNDU news director Sarah Thompson. “We’re proud to see such overwhelming community support.”
What is the Donate to Cultivate campaign?
Launched in 2022, the Donate to Cultivate campaign is a locally driven fundraising effort led by WNDU, a CBS affiliate serving northern Indiana. The initiative focuses on collecting donations for food banks and community kitchens, with a goal of distributing meals to thousands of residents. According to the South Bend Food Bank, the campaign has contributed to providing over 1 million meals since its inception. “Every dollar helps us stock shelves and serve families in need,” said South Bend Food Bank CEO Michael Rivera. “We’re grateful for WNDU’s partnership and the generosity of the community.”
How has the community responded?
The campaign has seen sustained participation from local businesses, schools, and residents. In 2023 alone, WNDU reported over 10,000 individual donations, with matching gifts from companies like St. Joseph County Public Library and local grocery chains. “We’ve seen a 30% increase in donations compared to last year,” said WNDU reporter James Carter. “It’s a testament to how deeply people care about their neighbors.” The station also organized community events, including a fall food drive and virtual fundraising challenges, to engage audiences. “It’s not just about money,” said volunteer organizer Lisa Nguyen. “It’s about building a culture of giving.”
Why does this matter for northern Indiana?
Food insecurity rates in St. Joseph County remain higher than the national average, with 12.7% of residents struggling to access nutritious meals, according to the 2023 Hunger Study by the Indiana University School of Public Health. The Donate to Cultivate campaign has directly addressed this gap by funding mobile food pantries and nutrition education programs. “This kind of local initiative is critical,” said Dr. Emily Zhang, a public health economist at IU. “It complements broader efforts to reduce poverty and improve health outcomes.” The campaign’s success has also inspired similar drives in neighboring communities, including Mishawaka and Elkhart.
What’s next for the campaign?
WNDU plans to expand the campaign’s reach in 2024, with a focus on youth nutrition programs and partnerships with regional farmers. The station has also announced a new goal of raising $1 million by 2025. “We want to make sure no one in our community goes hungry,” said Thompson. “This is just the beginning.” Donations can be made through WNDU’s website or at participating local businesses. The station will continue to update the public on distribution efforts and impact metrics throughout the year.
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