Food pantry wins award

Mother Hubbard's Cupboard of Bloomington was honored with an Indiana Achievement Award, which includes an unrestricted $10,000 cash prize.

Indiana Achievement Awards are given annually by the Indianapolis-based Sycamore Foundation to one exemplary nonprofit in each of six different categories. The agency took the award in the Small Organization/ Innovative category.

"We feel so honored to receive this prestigious award, and to be listed among the other five great Indiana nonprofit winners," said Libby Yarnelle, pantry director.

Mother Hubbard's Cupboard is the largest food pantry in Monroe County, serving nearly 900 patrons per week. Mother Hubbard's provides people in need with fresh, healthful groceries rescued by the Hoosier Hills Food Bank and distributed through the pantry facility at 1010 S. Walnut St. Their unique focus is on wholesome, healthful foods.

"It seems appropriate that the judges recognized us for innovation, because we certainly strive to do things in a unique, yet effective, manner. The judges liked our grassroots style, our focus on the dignity and empowerment of people in need, and our focus on nutrition and volunteerism," Yarnelle said.

Mother Hubbard's Cupboard and the other five Indiana Achievement Award winners were recognized at an awards luncheon at the Downtown Indianapolis Marriott on June 8. MHC was also presented with a Certificate of Commendation from Governor Mitch Daniels.

Bloomington seems to be a center for innovation, with Bloomington High School North's Habitat for Humanity chapter receiving Honorable Mention in the Small Organization/Innovative Category. Middleway House Inc., also of Bloomington, won the 2003 Award as a Large, Innovative Organization.

"There are so many wonderful nonprofits in Bloomington. We couldn't have gotten to this level without our important partnerships with other agencies, as well as the hard work of all our volunteers, board, and staff," Yarnelle said.

Other 2005 IAA winners include Fischoff National Chamber Music Association of Notre Dame, Lutheran Child and Family Services of Indianapolis, Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana in Evansville, YWCA of Greater Lafayette's Women's Cancer Program and Community Education Coalition of Connersville.

Hoosier Hills Food Bank, Inc. is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization and was incorporated in 1982. We can be reached at (812) 334-8374 or hhfb@hhfoodbank.org.