Healthy Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Rotary Club are again partnering to present a free Healthy Foods Distribution at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Lincoln Elementary School, 320 West Independence Avenue, Jacksonville. The event will be held rain or shine.

“We are looking forward to helping the community,” said Andrea Phelps, community health coordinator for Healthy Jacksonville. “During the food distribution we will feature a cooking demonstration by Karen Sibert, MS, RD, community nutrition educator at Passavant, and Colleen Cooksey, RD, former food editor at the Jacksonville Journal-Courier. The demonstration will give families ideas on how to prepare quick and nutritious meals. Participants can also learn more about our Healthy Jacksonville initiative.”

Brittany Henry, president of the Jacksonville Rotary Club, added, “Central Illinois Foodbank will be bringing us two truckloads of fresh meat, eggs, produce and dairy. The event is first-come, first served, and will continue until all of the food is distributed. Participants should bring a sturdy box, wagon or laundry basket to transport their groceries.”

The food distribution will be available to all area families regardless of income. No ID or documents will be required to receive food items. In addition, many local social service providers will set up booths to distribute information and talk with participants.

The project is made possible by a $3,200 grant from the Passavant Area Hospital Healthy Jacksonville program.

Volunteers from Passavant Area Hospital, Healthy Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Rotary Club, Illinois College Rotaract Club, Jacksonville Interact Club and Nestle will work the event to assist families as they select groceries and participate in the other activities.