United Way Partners with Food Bank to Aid Families Impacted by Lockout

In response to the ongoing lockout impacting workers and families connected to the BP Whiting Refinery, United Way Northwest Indiana is underwriting the cost of mobile food bank distributions and coordinating additional support services to directly assist affected households throughout the region.

Working in partnership the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, the Mobile Market distribution trucks will be deployed directly to the USW union hall to help provide essential food assistance and household support during this difficult time. United Way Northwest Indiana will also work to connect impacted families with additional community resources and supportive services available to help alleviate immediate hardships caused by the lockout.

Mobile food distributions are scheduled to take place throughout June and July, with distribution times and locations coordinated directly with union leadership. Additional details regarding upcoming distributions will be shared as they are confirmed.

“We understand this is an incredibly difficult and uncertain time for many working families across our region,” said Chris White. “For generations, refinery and union workers have helped build and sustain Northwest Indiana, and during moments like these, it is critical that our community comes together to support one another. By underwriting these food distributions and coordinating supportive services, we hope to ease the burden families are facing.”

“United Way Northwest Indiana is deeply committed to supporting working families throughout our region. We recognize the stress and uncertainty that labor disputes and lockouts place on families. We are proud to stand alongside our labor and community partners to help provide meaningful support during this time of need.”

“At the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana, we know access to resources matters,” said Victor Garcia, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. “By bringing mobile food
distributions directly to the union hall, we are making support more convenient and accessible for individuals impacted by the lockout, as well as other members of the community who may be struggling right now. Partnerships like this allow us to meet people where they are and ensure families can access food and support with dignity during difficult times.”

United Way Northwest Indiana collaborates with labor organizations, nonprofit agencies, volunteers, and regional partners to identify needs and mobilize assistance where it is needed most.

Families seeking additional support resources are encouraged to contact United Way Northwest Indiana by visiting the website at www.unitedwaynwi.org or calling 219.464.3583. Families in need of additional food assistance are encouraged to explore other Mobile Market distributions and partner food pantries available throughout the region through the Food Bank of Northwest

Indiana. Resources, distribution schedules, and pantry locations can be accessed at www.foodbanknwi.org.