STATE COLLEGE — The State College Food Bank recently announced that solar panels are being installed at its facility by Envinity, thanks to funding secured through the 2024 Federal Appropriations Bill.
This project represents a major step forward in the Food Bank’s commitment to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and long-term service to the Centre County community. By utilizing grant funding from the 2024 Federal Appropriations Bill, the food bank is able to complete this important infrastructure improvement without diverting resources away from its mission of providing food security to those in need in Centre County.
The new solar energy system will significantly reduce the organization’s electricity costs, allowing more financial resources to be directed toward food purchasing and essential programming. As food banks across the country face rising food costs and increased demand, investments like this help ensure operational stability and resilience for years to come.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support that made this project possible,” said Allayn Beck, Executive Director of the State College Food Bank. “Every dollar we save on utilities is a dollar we can put toward feeding our neighbors. This project strengthens our ability to serve our community while also reducing our environmental impact.”
“Envinity is honored to partner with a valued community organization on this solar project,” said Cam Willison, Commercial Solar Development Manager for Envinity. “This initiative reflects the Food Bank’s commitment to sustainability while strengthening its operations and furthering its leadership as an environmental steward in the community.”
The solar installation builds on the Food Bank’s broader and ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship. The organization actively works to minimize waste at every stage of its operations. Fresh food that cannot be distributed is composted whenever possible through a partnership with the State College Borough, ensuring that organic material is diverted from landfills and returned to the soil.
In addition, the Food Bank collaborates closely with the Centre County Refuse and Recycling Authority to recycle cardboard, mixed plastics, and other recyclable materials generated through daily operations. Through a partnership with Wegmans, the plastic grocery bags from community donations are also collected and recycled responsibly.
By combining renewable energy production with comprehensive waste reduction and recycling practices, the State College Food Bank is committed to maximizing the impact of every donated dollar while modeling responsible environmental practices within the
nonprofit sector.
Installation is currently underway, with the system expected to be fully operational in the next week.
