Staff Reports
Amid job loss and area residents’ struggle with basic needs such as food during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Tony Stewart Foundation is becoming a driving force to help.
At 11 a.m. today, as the foundation becomes the newest member of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, foundation leaders are establishing a blessing box of free, ready-to-eat, non-perishable food in front of the Bartholomew County Public Library as they partner with the library and the chamber on the long-term project.
In fact, the box already was filled with items Wednesday afternoon, according to Angela Eck, assistant librarian. The idea is simple: People in need are free to take whatever they need any time of day or night, or to leave food to share with others.
Foundation leaders also are making a commitment to keep the box filled with food.
A foundation leader will be on hand today to share about the organization’s work and impact. Also in attendance will be Columbus Mayor Jim Lienhoop, Eck and others.
The mission of the Tony Stewart Foundation is to provide grant funding to well-qualified organizations, serving children who are critically ill or physically disabled; animals at-risk or endangered; and drivers injured in the sport of motor racing.
