Hot Meals USA, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Hot Meals USA, a local non-profit determined to feed people during disaster was honored by the Buffalo County Community Partners Board of Directors in July with the Above and Beyond Volunteer Award.
Buffalo County Community Partners’ CEO, Denise Zwiener, shared “Hot Meals USA embodies this award daily with their commitment to emergency food security. I have worked with this team over the years, however, the moment that stands out the most is their immediate response to food support during covid-19 pandemic.”
“Hopefully you see this is not a single operating program, but a movement that connects people and other social capital to build well-being for all in Buffalo County, and beyond making this culture in service to be emulated and honored.”
Food security is one of the top issues to be addressed by Buffalo County’s 2030 vision. “Dick Cochran and the many volunteers have servant hearts who have helped do amazing work to care for neighbors in need.” Shared food security manager, Martha Marfileno, Buffalo County Community Partners.
“Dick and his family have made Hot Meals USA into a reality and respectful response to disaster assistance. The model of leadership, organization, and coordination make it happen. It’s more than just a meal. It is a friendly welcome, “how you doing, we’re here to help”, that means so much in their stressful times. It’s meaningful to helpers as well as patrons.” Shared volunteer Gary Anderson.
Hot Meals USA extends a request to the community to go beyond the award to helping Hot Meals USA as they move on to the next phase in development – a warehouse operations center for future expansion of Hot Meals USA.
The Community Partner Board honors individuals or organizations who make contributions within their communities through innovation, investment, and identifying issues that connect people to resources.
Winners are recognized for giving humbly, with a passion for others, and often bringing lived experiences that guide their decision-making in the community. Send nominations to info@bcchp.org to the attention of committee co-leaders; Tammy Jackson and Kelli John.
Buffalo County Community Partners is a non-profit organization that identifies concerns impacting the well-being of area residents, addresses concerns by collecting and evaluating data, and facilitates conversations among experts and impacted parties. They are uniquely positioned to do this work because they invest time to build connections and increase access to the necessary resources and experiences to achieve solutions. Find more at www.bcchp.org or contact us at (308)865-2284 or info@bcchp.org
