In Crown Point, the Lake County Health Department in partnership with the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana recently celebrated the opening of a new Community Food Locker. Made possible through Health First Indiana funding, officials say the Community Food Locker expands access to nutritious food for Lake County residents by providing a convenient, self-service location where eligible participants can pick up food packages containing refrigerated and shelf-stable items.
The locker is the first food locker located south of U.S. 30 in Lake County, helping improve access for residents in southern Lake County, a news release said. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Lake County Health Department, 2900 W. 93rd Avenue, Crown Point.
“Nutritious food is one of our most basic human needs. When individuals or families are worried about where their next meal will come from, it becomes much more difficult to focus on work, school, health, happiness, and daily life,” said Dr. Chandana Vavilala, Health Officer for the Lake County Health Department. “Through this partnership, we’re expanding access to nutritious food while encouraging families and friends to gather around the table, share meals, and strengthen the connections that build healthier communities.”
“This new Order Ahead refrigerated locker represents an important step in making nutritious food more accessible for our neighbors. Through our partnership with the Lake County Health Department, we’re removing barriers to food access and ensuring individuals and families can receive healthy food with dignity, convenience, and reliability.” said Victor Garcia, Food Bank of Northwest Indiana.
Interested participants can contact the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana to learn more about eligibility and enrollment.
