Dairy farmers donate nearly 10,000 pounds of milk to Illinois food banks

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois dairy farmers are committed to building up communities experiencing food insecurity.

Recognizing the hardships many families are facing, the Illinois Milk Producers Association donated nearly 10,000 pounds of milk, including lactose-free, between two local food banks.

“We know that many families are struggling with food insecurity amid rising prices at the grocery store,” said Don Mackinson, IMPA president. “Everyone deserves access to fresh, nutritious food, which is why Illinois dairy farmers wanted to find a new way to support our communities.”

IMPA donated 2,088 half-gallon containers of milk, and 396 half-gallon containers of lactose-free milk, to the Central and Eastern Illinois Foodbanks.

The donation was made in partnership with Prairie Farms, Illinois Corn Growers Association and Illinois Soybean Association.

Tasha Bunting, IMPA executive director, said the donation coincided with the start of June Dairy Month, a time when dairy farmers and the dairy industry are celebrated.

“Dairy Month is an opportunity to share not only what our dairy farmers are doing and the challenges they’re facing, but also fund things like dairy recipes and dairy consumption,” Bunting said.

“This year, we’ve started a new program to help some of those families in need of dairy products, especially during a time when inflation is such a challenge for many.”

Prairie Farms delivered the donations to the Central Illinois Foodbank in Springfield and the Eastern Illinois Foodbank in Urbana on June 6.

“Central Illinois Foodbank is excited to work with great partners to feed our neighbors healthy and nutritious foods. Thanks to a community effort from Illinois Milk Producers Association, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Soybean Association and Prairie Farms, our neighbors have greater access to dairy,” said Pam Molitoris, Central Illinois Foodbank executive director.

“Families facing hunger have to make unthinkable choices every day. When you are choosing between making rent and putting food on the table, dietary restrictions may be put aside. A lactose-free milk option provides families with the opportunity to enjoy nutritious alternatives.”

Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II joined IMPA and the Central Illinois Foodbank to acknowledge the role the dairy industry plays in Illinois’ economy.

“There are about 400 dairy farmers in the state of Illinois, and I think anybody who’s in or around agriculture knows the hours and work that goes into dairy farming is second to none,” Costello said.

“It is something that is very physically and mentally exhausting. We’re also just coming off of May, which is mental health month. We have a Farm Family Resource Initiative Helpline — 833-FarmSOS — for all those folks in agriculture that may be experiencing stresses.”