Illinois Valley Times

State Representative Brad Fritts shared a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new rural mini food center in Ogle County, stating it was "going to be a huge resource for those in need." Fritts made the statement in a June 24 Facebook post.

"What an incredible ribbon cutting at the new Rural Mini Food Center that will provide 24/7 access to food for communities in need," said Fritts, according to Facebook. "Thank you to the Ogle County Health Department for running this and Teen Turf for hosting this center on their land. This is going to be a huge resource for those in need and I appreciate everyone's hard work on making this idea a reality!"

According to Shaw Local, there are now four mini food centers operational in Ogle, Lee, Whiteside, and Carroll counties. These centers provide fresh and nutritious food available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The project is part of an initiative by the Ogle County Health Department and is funded by a $500,000 annual grant from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Screenshot of Rep. Brad Fritts' | State Representative Bradley Fritts Facebook page

The Ogle County Health Department explains that the center operates on a "take what you like, leave what you can" basis. Each station is maintained weekly with expired foods removed and the shelter cleaned. Individuals are asked to record the amount and type of items they take so that this information can be reported for the grant. Users are also encouraged to leave comments to ensure the program serves the community effectively.

Students at Oregon Junior/Senior High School built the enclosures for these mini food centers as part of their classes. Teacher Seth McMillan led students in the construction process, imparting necessary skills.

The Ogle County Health Department plans to add two more mini food centers in the fall. In the month since these centers have been open, grant coordinator Joyce Lewis told WREX that community members are embracing them and have asked how they can donate produce and eggs.

Bradley Fritts is the State Representative for District 74 and took office in January 2023. He is a lifelong resident of Illinois, serving as a substitute teacher and farming with his family when not in Springfield. He holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and consumer economics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.