The Go! Bismarck-Mandan Coalition is organizing a Food Drive to bring more food to our area’s food pantries through the Great Plains Food Bank network. Donations will be collected October 19-23, 2015 at Bismarck Burleigh Public Health, 500 E. Front Ave., Bismarck from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Donations will be accepted in Mandan at Custer Health, 210 2nd Ave. NW, Mandan on October 19-20, 2015 from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Residents of Bismarck and Mandan are encouraged to donate healthier food options such as fruits and vegetables, proteins, dairy and dairy substitutes, 100% whole grains, and healthy fats. A list of suggested foods can be found on the Healthy Food Bank Hub at http://healthyfoodbankhub.feedingamerica.org/resource/healthy-food-donation-list/#sthash.tar8KNwb.dpuf.

Students and staff at Legacy High School are also participating in a food drive at their school in conjunction with the city-wide effort.

Fresh fruit and vegetable donations will be accepted, and could come from a backyard fruit tree, community garden space, or the grocery store. Great Plains Food Bank will also accept monetary donations at www.greatplainsfoodbank.org/get-involved/donate/

Go! strives to help all people have access to a healthy diet. Not all people in our community are able to access enough healthy foods every day to build the healthiest diets and lead productive lives at school and work.

The Go! Bismarck-Mandan Coalition was formed in 2009 to improve the health, fitness and quality of life of all people in Bismarck and Mandan by creating a supportive culture and environment through a coordinated approach. More information about the coalition, including a list of current partners, can be found at www.gobismarckmdandan.org . For additional details on the Food Drive, please contact Katie Johnke, (701) 355-1555, or kjohnke@bismarcknd.gov.