The Legacy Foundation and the city of Gary recently announced an award of $85,000 to the Gary Food Collective Co-op, a community-driven initiative led by Family Life Community Center.
A release said it’s designed to address food insecurity, foster economic growth, and empower Gary residents.
Funding will be used to expand its food Co-op program across Gary by equipping individuals with the skills needed to successfully launch and sustain their own food co-ops, while providing residents with access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food.
Support for this project is provided by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation Fund at Legacy Foundation and funding from the city of Gary’s American Rescue Plan Act grant.
“Access to healthy, affordable food for our residents is a fundamental quality of life issue,” said Mayor Eddie Melton… “This program shows we can collaboratively address food insecurity while also providing education and entrepreneurship opportunities that benefit our community.”
Research shows that food co-ops not only provide access to healthy foods but create local jobs and foster economic resilience.
The Food Collective Co-op program will continue addressing the critical issue of food insecurity across Gary while promoting economic development and community empowerment by training individuals to own their own co-ops.
“I am excited to see the growth of the Gary Food Collective Co-op and the positive impact it will continue having on the city,” said Legacy Foundation President and CEO, Kelly Anoe.
In the last three months, Family Life Community Center, at 565 Massachusetts St., has helped feed about 8,000 people. The co-op is primarily sourced by the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, but through a new partnership, the co-op now receives items from local Meijer and Target locations.
“Receiving these grants is a monumental step forward for the Gary Food Collective, explained LaJuan Clemons, founder of the Family Life Community Center.
“This funding allows us to expand our co-op program, making fresh, nutritious food more accessible while fostering workforce development and community empowerment.”
Inspired by the legacy of Gary native Jacob Reddix and the Consumer Cooperative Trading Company, she said the organizations want to create a modern network of co-ops that reflect the same spirit of resilience and innovation.
“This is about more than just food; it’s about building a sustainable, self-reliant community that thrives together,” she said.
To learn more about the Gary Food Collective Co-op program and Family Life Community Center contact Lajuan Clemons at 219-240-6557 or laJuan@garyfoodcollective.net.
