The Great Plains Food Bank is seeking a significant boost in its capacity to combat hunger in North Dakota, as highlighted during a recent House Agriculture Committee meeting. The organization reported a staggering 97% increase in food assistance requests over the past decade, with 156,479 individuals relying on its services in 2023. Despite North Dakota's low unemployment rate, many residents are struggling to afford basic necessities, often choosing between food, rent, and medical expenses.

To address this growing need, the Food Bank is advocating for House Bill 1143, which proposes a one-time appropriation of $10 million to fund a new statewide distribution center. This facility aims to enhance the Food Bank's ability to recover, store, and distribute food more efficiently, ultimately serving more communities across the state. The current facility, built in 1978, has reached its limits and is plagued by maintenance issues, including a failing HVAC system and inadequate space for operations.

The proposed new center would span 70,000 square feet, increasing warehouse capacity by 57% and allowing for more efficient food distribution. The Food Bank has already raised $936,000 towards its $30.5 million goal, with plans to sell its current facility and leverage new market tax credits to cover additional costs.

Support for the bill is widespread, with various stakeholders, including local businesses and community organizations, emphasizing the critical role the Food Bank plays in addressing food insecurity. The initiative is seen not just as a facility upgrade but as a vital step towards ensuring that no North Dakotan goes hungry. The committee's decision on House Bill 1143 could mark a pivotal moment in the state's fight against hunger, with advocates urging lawmakers to act decisively to support this essential cause.