FORT BENTON — A big-hearted gift from the Twin Hills Colony in Carter is making a real difference at the Chouteau County Food Bank. Thanks to their support, many families will soon have access to nutritious meals.
On Thursday, the Producer Partnership delivered over 1,600 pounds of ground pork from their Livingston facility. This remarkable donation is set to provide around 6,400 meals for families who are struggling.
Matt Pierson, founder of the Producer Partnership, shared insight into their operations. He said that when Twin Hills reached out, they were eager to help their local community. “Most producers get to choose where their donations go, but Twin Hills specifically wanted to assist people nearby,” he explained.
The Producer Partnership has been active since 2020, transforming donated livestock into valuable protein for food banks and nonprofits across Montana. To date, they’ve provided nearly 270,000 pounds of locally-raised meat. With the rising demand for food, their efforts are more important than ever. Pierson remarked, “The need for food is greater than we’ve seen in a long time. It’s vital for local producers to support their communities.”
Chouteau County Health Director Kelly Waldbillig echoed this sentiment. She noted a significant increase in food requests, saying, “We’ve seen a rise in the number of people needing assistance, especially just last week.” The food bank currently serves over 100 families, offering a variety of items like canned goods, fresh produce, and frozen proteins.
Waldbillig added that the donation won’t only benefit families in Fort Benton. Some of the meat will also go to food banks in Big Sandy, Highwood, and Carter. Moreover, it will contribute to Christmas “Angel Baskets,” brightening the holidays for many in need.
This increase in food insecurity isn’t just a local issue. Recent studies show that food banks across the U.S. have reported a surge in demand, with many experiencing 30-50% more requests compared to last year. As the economic landscape changes, support from local producers becomes even more crucial for families relying on food banks.
By fostering these connections, everyone wins—local farmers, food banks, and the families who need them most. It’s a heartening reminder of community spirit and resilience in tough times.
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