The Hunger Collaborative, a group of over 30 nonprofits convened by Galesburg Community Foundation is working to develop strategies to reduce hunger by addressing its root causes. In addition to the direct, immediate need for food, the Hunger Collaborative has identified four priority areas: access to and awareness of services, workforce and skills readiness, housing and homelessness, and transportation.
For each area, nonprofit organizations are collaborating to develop strategies for multi-year grants. The Knox County Housing Authority (KCHA) recently received a Hunger Collaborative grant for the Fare Free Public Transit Initiative. In collaboration with the City of Galesburg Transportation Department, KCHA is now able to offer free transit services for residents of Knox County Housing Authority Public and Affordable Housing Programs. The program currently offers an average of 1,900 rides per month, demonstrating that this seemingly small change has had a profound impact on the lives of those who were previously burdened by the cost of transportation.
Before this initiative, many KCHA residents were forced to sacrifice basic necessities to afford a bus fare. This often meant choosing between buying groceries or getting medical care, a choice no one should have to make.
Jillian Isaacson, Galesburg Community Foundations Director of Grants and Programs, emphasized the significance of this grant, stating, “This initiative not only improves access to essential services such as work, school, and medical appointments, but also empowers residents to make choices that enhance their quality of life.
Amber Thurman, a resident of Knox County Housing Authority, shared the difference this program has made.
“The free bus pass has transformed my life,” Amber shares. “I get out more, experience less pain because I no longer have to carry heavy bags, and my health has improved since I can visit my doctor regularly and fill my prescriptions more easily.” The freedom to access essential services without financial strain has been, in Amber’s words, “lifesaving”.
“The Fare Free Public Transit Initiative showcases the power of proactive granting. Organizations are developing innovative solutions that address the root causes of hunger, with clear goals and outcomes driving their success.” Joshua Gibb, President & CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation.
To learn more about how the Hunger Collaborative is working to address the root causes of hunger in our region, visit yourgcf.org/community-programs/hunger-collaborative/.
