Mrvan Attends Hunger Roundtable

Merrillville, IN – Today, Rep. Frank J. Mrvan attended a Hunger Roundtable at the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana to discuss the role of federal programs to combat food insecurity. 

The discussion included participants from Bread for the World, Calumet College of St. Joseph, Crown Point Community School Corporation, Faith Farms CDC, Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, Meals on Wheels NWI, NWI Food Council, Portage Township Trustee’s Office, Purdue University Northwest Food Pantry Committee, and the School City of Hammond.

Congressman Mrvan stated, “I thank all of these community leaders from across Northwest Indiana for joining today for this critical and timely discussion on their essential efforts to improve access to food.  As we move forward, I will continue to do all I can as a federal legislator to work collaboratively with all federal, state, and local partners to advance solutions that positively impact our communities.” 

Victor Garcia, President and CEO of Food Bank of NWI, stated, “Bringing together community leaders, partners, and policymakers is essential as we work to ensure every family in Northwest Indiana has consistent access to nutritious food.  We’re grateful for the Congressman’s commitment to listening, learning, and advancing solutions that strengthen our communities.”

Ryan Elinkowski, CEO of Meals on Wheels of NWI, stated, “I appreciate the opportunity to stand alongside Congressman Mrvan and partners across Northwest Indiana who are united in improving access to food and caring for the needs of our neighbors.”

Frieda Graves, Director of Food Systems, Health, and Wellness at Faith Farms CDC, stated, “Our Faith Farm & Orchard and Faith Food is Medicine Initiatives are committed not only to addressing persistent health disparities within our Northwest Indiana community but also to confronting the root causes—particularly food insecurity—and its profound impact on overall health outcomes.  When households lack consistent access to nutritious food, both physical and mental health conditions are exacerbated, often resulting in increased hospitalizations and higher medical costs.  Our collaborative work shows that improving access to healthy foods can significantly enhance health outcomes, advance equity, reduce food insecurity, and strengthen community well-being.”

Kelly Patterson, Federal Programs Coordinator at School City of Hammond, stated, “Schools are on the front lines of addressing food insecurity, and we see firsthand the impact it has on our learning community.  Ensuring that our students’ fundamental needs are met is not separate from our educational mission—it is essential to it.  Addressing food insecurity is a critical component of supporting student well-being, academic success, and equitable outcomes across our district.”

Molly Bowler, President of Purdue University Northwest Food Pantry Committee, stated, “I am proud to have served countless students through the PNW Food Pantry.  This roundtable is not just bringing awareness to my story, but to put a voice to and uplift the many college students facing food insecurity."

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