Indiana first lady kicks off food drive

First Lady Cheri Daniels announced the kickoff of the annual Hoosiers Helping Hoosiers food drive for Indiana state employees today.

During the month of February, 68 agencies and 160 divisions throughout state government will coordinate efforts to collect non-perishable items for local food banks and pantries.

“Over the past two years, state employees have donated more than 150,000 items and over $25,000 to food banks across Indiana,” Daniels said. “I’m certain they will join together once again this year to help our fellow Hoosiers in need.”

Suggested contributions include canned fruits, vegetables and meats as well as soup, rice and pasta.

Collection bins provided by Gleaners Food Bank are located in the Indiana Government Center cafeterias and outside the Governor’s Office in the State House. Other state offices around the state have donation boxes located within their individual facilities.

The signature event for the Hoosiers Helping Hoosiers food drive is IndiCANa, a structure building competition with cans. The contest for state employees will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 23 in the Indiana Government Center South atrium. First Lady Cheri Daniels will serve as judge for the competition.