MFB began a partnership with Amazon as a food donor in 2020. Since then, Amazon has provided loads of product across the MFB footprint and is a valued food donor for the organization. Some divisions have picked up Amazon Fresh regular loads - a tremendous source of nutritious and fresh food. That partnership continues to grow and expand in exciting ways.
Food Box Project
In 2022, Amazon Logistics for Good approached MFB Peoria to pilot a food distribution effort in Harlan, Kentucky. MFB has had a remote distribution in Harlan for several years. more than 43 percent of the population of Harlan County has an income below the poverty rate. MFB was chosen to pilot the program based on operational efficiency, volunteer engagement, and the distribution already in place.
Under the new program, Amazon funds the purchase of food and cost of shipping. MFB procures and packages the food for distribution. The pilot started in late February, and has the potential to extend to additional divisions and locations. This project offers the following benefits to MFB operations:
- High-quality, nutritious food distributed to a community in need.
- A consistent packaging project for volunteer groups.
- Operational and facility financial support and resources provided by Amazon throughout the project.
- The opportunity to strengthen an already positive relationship with Amazon.
"This partnership with Amazon Logistics for Good is a great benefit in furthering the MFB mission," says Audrey Kamm, Executive Director of MFB Peoria. "High-quality, nutritious food will continue to be distributed to a community in great need."
Tender Mercies, packaged at MFB Morton, are included in the food boxes. Savory rice and beans are the foundation of these nutritious meals. Tender Mercies a popular item in the area.
Volunteers Needed
Transportation
Amazon is also piloting a process to donate transportation services to Midwest Food Bank, offering to transport food free of charge. Each MFB location has benefited from this project and reduced transportation costs.
Disaster Relief
Amazon values the ability of MFB to package family food boxes through our volunteer efforts. At the time of Hurricane Ian in 2022, Amazon provided food to include in Disaster Relief boxes. This was high-quality food shipped directly to MFB warehouses for packaging.
Partnering with Amazon has been a great benefit in furthering the Midwest Food Bank mission. We are encouraged by what has already been accomplished and are hopeful of future collaboration opportunities.