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The Greater Cleveland Food Bank is a critical support system for families across Northeast Ohio who rely on its nutritious meals, food assistance program support and advocacy. Last year, the food bank distributed 54.5 million pounds of food — fresh produce, lean protein, whole grains and pantry staples.
“Our work is so critical in the community day in and day out,” says Kristin Warzocha, president and CEO, noting a growing network of 1,000 partner distribution agencies that share its mission to stop hunger and get healthy food into the hands of neighbors.
More than ever, individuals who never relied on the food bank are facing food insecurity. In 2024, it provided meals to about 425,000 families across six counties.
“To continue to do this, we need to make sure we have a diverse, stable revenue stream, even in uncertain times,” Warzocha says.
Stable Funds for the Future
The Greater Cleveland Food Bank has an enduring partnership with the Cleveland Foundation. In 2006, the nonprofit established an organizational fund. Donors can invest in the fund, which the food bank can leverage to support operations, programming and strategic initiatives.
“A gift to the endowment is a gift that keeps on giving,” says Warzocha, relating that original gifts remain in the fund for perpetuity. “This fund helps us plan for the future and provides dollars we can anticipate every year, and we really appreciate the stability.”
Thriving with Guidance
As the country’s first community food bank, founded in 1979, the nonprofit has expanded its scope and reach significantly since its founders came together to address food waste and hunger.
The fund with Cleveland Foundation provides a steady financial foundation so the food bank can plan beyond emergency relief such as supporting infrastructure, community outreach and future expansion.
“Establishing an endowment of any size is important for nonprofits,” says Warzocha, noting how early conversations with the Cleveland Foundation centered on learning how organizational funds like this work. The nonprofit’s network of advisers with deep financial expertise are a ready resource, and the nonprofit has a dedicated philanthropy officer.
“They provide expert guidance, and their oversight is one of the reasons our dollars have grown,” Warzocha says.
Importantly, the partnership goes beyond investment support. The Cleveland Foundation has connected donors to the food bank. Warzocha adds, “Our endowment gives donors the confidence in our ability to deliver food for our community over the long-term.”
Learn more about organizational funds.