The Coatesville Youth Initiative and Chester County Food Bank have announced a new partnership to better meet the needs of the greater Coatesville community.

The two nonprofits are partnering to create an innovation center based on available research and assessments conducted by both organizations to identify and consider the needs of all ages in the area.

The center will foster economic stability, build public and private partnerships, and positively contribute to a vibrant Coatesville community.

Guided by shared beliefs, collaboration among residents, community partners, and local business leaders, CYI and the Food Bank believe their partnership will serve as a model for true transformational change.

“The Food Bank is excited to be partnering with the Coatesville Youth Initiative in this innovative endeavor,” said Larry Welsch, the Food Bank’s Executive Director. “Making dreams realities and improving the lives of all the people we serve in the Coatesville area brings the mission of the Food Bank full circle.

“Together, we firmly believe we can bring hope and health to all – from our youngest participants to the seniors we serve.”

CYI is poised to broaden its impact on the community by continuing to focus on its most precious asset: its residents. In a safe and structured environment, CYI will provide youth and young adults access to quality programs, caring competent adults, and the ability to develop their skills and talents. CYI aims to inspire generations to become policy-makers, thought leaders, and community change agents by being actively involved in the process of building a vibrant Coatesville.

To provide for a modern food center that will include fresh produce and other real, healthy food options, the Food Bank will bring all food distribution currently offered in Coatesville under one roof and support the five existing food cupboards to develop and expand other services to benefit the Coatesville community. This “single stream” distribution model will increase efficiency and expand opportunities for residents who live within the Coatesville Area School District.

For more than a decade, CYI and the Food Bank have leveraged partnerships and resources to help individuals and families reach their fullest potential. Together, they intend to deepen their relationships with the community and provide an opportunity to connect, energize, and empower those they serve.

Their goal is to bridge Coatesville’s rich history with its bright future.