Food Bank for the Heartland proudly announced today that its board of directors has unanimously selected Brian Barks as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. Barks, who has served as the Food Bank’s director of philanthropy and communications since he joined the organization in 2009, will succeed Susan Ogborn, the current President and CEO, on July 1, 2018.
“Following a national search, it became clear that Brian’s expertise within the food banking industry, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to the Food Bank’s mission make him a natural choice to lead this organization,” said Tara Stingley, chairperson of Food Bank for the Heartland’s board of directors. “Food Bank for the Heartland will be in excellent hands under Brian’s humble leadership as we work to eliminate hunger in Nebraska and western Iowa.”
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Food Bank of Lincoln and Food Bank for the Heartland announced the release of Map the Meal Gap 2018, the latest report by Feeding America® on food insecurity and the cost of food at both the county and congressional district level. Map the Meal Gap 2018 reveals that food insecurity exists in every county in Nebraska. Additionally, 44% of Nebraskans who are food insecure are likely ineligible for federal nutrition assistance under current program requirements just as Congress looks at further restricting eligibility for these programs through the Farm Bill.
Overall food insecurity in Nebraska ranges from a low of 5.1% in Colfax County up to 14% in McPherson County. According to the new data, an estimated 227,350 Nebraskans are food insecure; including 82,070 are children under the age of 18. The overall total has decreased slightly from 233,350 since last year’s report.
Food Bank for the Heartland has been honored with a Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator for the eighth consecutive year. Charity Navigator is the nation’s largest evaluator of charities. They provide ratings for over 8,000 American charities based on sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.
Only 2% of the charities rated have received 8 consecutive 4-star evaluations. Food Bank for the Heartland is proud to be recognized for continuing to offer excellent services as one of the most highly rated organizations in the country.
To view the Food Bank’s rating, please visit: www.charitynavigator.com.
