Feeding Northeast Florida, the area’s largest community food bank serving an eight-county area in Northeast Florida, has announced its purchase and redevelopment plans for a 121,000-square-foot warehouse complex located on a 12-acre site at 5245 Old Kings Road.
The nonprofit organization plans to renovate the buildings and surrounding property, creating a campus environment to serve as its primary warehouse, logistics, distribution and operations center — more than doubling its current space. Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of the year.
The food bank currently operates out of two smaller warehouses for the collection, inspection and distribution of food throughout its service area. It has conducted operations from its original Edgewood Avenue location since 2014. In that time, it has expanded its network to more than 325 partner organizations and programs, facilitated food distributions that reach an estimated 85,000 people per day and implemented innovative new initiatives, including the Corner Markets and Prescriptive Nutrition programs.
The need for charitable food has increased exponentially since the onset of COVID-19. The food bank is reporting the need at 25% higher now than during the height of the pandemic. Approximately 30% of individuals seeking food assistance have never sought charity food before. This facility and warehouse, and its forthcoming renovation, will help the organization grow to meet the increased needs of the community.
Consolidation of the organization’s two current facilities will increase efficiency and reduce costs, which have risen 58% in the past 18 months. Upon completion, this renovation will provide additional storage and operations space, enabling the food bank to bring its team together and create new efficiencies within the organization. Additionally, the new space will support the expansion of food assistance programs such as nutritional education programming, additional space for partner agency training and community-building and expanded volunteer opportunities.
“Getting healthy, nutritious food into the hands of those in need is our top priority at Feeding Northeast Florida,” said Susan King, president and CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida. “This new campus will allow us to expand both the depth and breadth of our services. We are so grateful for the support of our community in helping us continue our mission to end hunger here at home.”
The purchase closed on Dec. 21, 2021. The general contractor is The Conlan Companies. Thomas Duke Architect and Micamy Design Studio are the design team for the project.
For more information, to make a donation or sign up to volunteer, go to feedingnefl.org. For every $1 donated, six meals are provided.
