United Way Northwest Indiana Awards Nearly $20,000 to Fight Hunger in Starke County

Valparaiso, IN – September 9, 2025 – – United Way Northwest Indiana has awarded $19,902 in Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana to support local food pantries and reduce hunger in Starke County.
Food insecurity remains a critical issue for many families in Starke County. Rising food costs, limited access to fresh groceries, and economic instability mean more households are relying on food pantries for support. This funding—made available through the federal EFSP program—will help the Food Bank of Northern Indiana strengthen its pantry partners in Starke County, keeping shelves stocked with nutritious food and ensuring families have reliable access to meals through mobile food distributions.
Strengthening Starke County through United Way’s Commitment to Healthy Communities
This investment aligns directly with United Way Northwest Indiana’s mission to create lasting change through our focus on Healthy Communities, one of our four key pillars of impact.
"These EFSP dollars will directly impact families in Starke County who face food insecurity every day," said Marijo Martinec, President & CEO of the Food Bank of Northern Indiana. "Our partnership with United Way Northwest Indiana strengthens our ability to serve local pantries, ensuring that nutritious food is available to those who need it most."
United Way Northwest Indiana President & CEO Chris White added: "Food insecurity is one of the most basic barriers to economic stability and success. By directing nearly $20,000 to the Food Bank of Northern Indiana for use in Starke County, we’re not just filling shelves—we’re stabilizing families and improving health across the entire community. This partnership proves once again why we believe United is the Way."
To learn more or support United Way’s work, visit www.unitedwaynwi.org.
About United Way Northwest Indiana
United Way Northwest Indiana is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives across Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, and Starke counties. We are at the forefront of creating positive community impact through strategic initiatives aligned with our four core pillars: Financial Stability, Youth Opportunity, Healthy Individuals, and Resilient Communities. 
Our mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to advance the common good, tackling local challenges with innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships.
Through our flagship Level Up Program and community-driven initiatives, United Way Northwest Indiana strives to foster lasting change and improve the quality of life for all residents. We are committed to building a stronger, more resilient Northwest Indiana.