Join the Cause: How One Good Samaritan is Tackling Local Food Shortages – Get Involved Today! | Midwest Medical Edition

CHI Health Good Samaritan is stepping up its efforts to help the community this year. Facing rising food insecurities, the hospital is launching Project Snowflake, its employee giving drive, earlier than usual and inviting everyone to join in.

“For 36 years, Project Snowflake has been a cherished way for our employees to give back,” said Curt Coleman, president of CHI Health Good Samaritan. “This time, the need is even greater. We’re extending our outreach to include the whole community.”

Employees are collecting canned goods to create “meals-in-a-bag” for families. These bags will include all the essentials for a Thanksgiving dinner and will be distributed through organizations like CASA and the Jubilee Center.

On Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the community can donate canned food at Kearney’s HyVee. The AirCare and Care Management teams, along with Apollo Medflight, will be at the store’s entrance to collect items. While a list of needed foods will be available, all canned contributions will be warmly welcomed.

Following this effort, collection boxes will be placed at the main entrances of Good Samaritan and local CHI Health Clinics to restock food pantries for the Christmas season. Donations of non-perishable food items will be accepted from November 20 to December 11.

Last year, Project Snowflake saw over $7,700 in donations from hospital employees, which made a significant difference for local nonprofits. Coleman highlighted that “like a snowflake, every contribution counts. Together, we can create a flurry of support for families in need.”

Recent data shows that food insecurity affects about 10.5% of households in the U.S., making community support initiatives like this even more critical. According to a recent Feeding America report, one in eight Americans faces hunger, underscoring the importance of these collective efforts.

As the community comes together, each donation amplifies the impact, making a real difference for those who need it most.



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