Berea Food Bank Volunteers Receive National Recognition

BEREA, Ky. (LEX 18) — Several Berea Food Bank volunteers received a national award Tuesday for their hard work and dedication over the years.

Tanya Stewart has been volunteering with the food bank for over 15 years.

“I know what it feels like to spend your days with a tight stomach, wondering where the next meal is coming from,” Stewart said. “They don’t have to worry about their basic needs, at least not as much, and that’s important.”

On Tuesday, Stewart, along with four others who work at the food bank, received the Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

The award honors those whose service positively impacts communities across the United States.

Tony Crachiolo, executive director of the food bank, told LEX 18 this is the highest honor a volunteer can receive.

“These five volunteers have been my inspiration from the first time I started volunteering at the food bank in 2017,” Crachiolo said. “Their level of commitment to their work, their compassion for the people we serve, their guiding hand in helping us all understand the spirit of giving, that is what characterizes the Berea Food Bank.”

Each volunteer received a certificate, pin and medal, as well as a letter from President Joe Biden.