he New Emergency TResource Agency is excited to announce that after months of searching and fundraising, they have purchased a new van. This van will aid in the food recovery efforts for the organization at nearby grocery stores and businesses.

Every week, NERA is blessed to have the opportunity to recover usable food that is able to be used in the Food and Resource Agency for those in the community who are in need. On average, NERA is making about 5-7 grocery store pick-ups per week. These store pickups help complement the food that is purchased from the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and is provided to those in need in NERA’s coverage area.

The new van is gently used, but is one that features a refrigerated unit to safely transport food from grocery stores or businesses to NERA while remaining climate controlled. NERA was able to pay for this van in full, thanks to fundraising efforts and donations. In the near future, the van will be wrapped, so that it will be visible with the NERA Logo.

“I am thrilled we were finally able to make this goal a reality. This purchase was much needed for NERA and will make the food recovery efforts so much more efficient and safer.” said Erin Liberton, NERA Board President and Member.

“We searched for months to find the right solution for NERA and we couldn’t have found a better one. This is an answered prayer and we sincerely thank the donors and supporters who helped make this possible.” added Liberton.

“We were grateful for the pickup truck that we had for the last several years that was donated to us, but it just wasn’t cutting it anymore. We thank the folks at the Regional Food Bank for their insight, our Board, for their assistance and Erin Liberton and her husband, Eric, for their persistence in helping us find what we needed.” said Tom Short, NERA Executive Director.

“Eric and Erin helped us make this happen. Eric even washed the van the night before bringing it to us.” added Short.

NERA is always in need of donations and they can be taken to the agency during their hours of operation. For questions on specific needs, please contact the agency or visit their Facebook page. Food items are welcome as well as plastic grocery bags and egg cartons.

NERA is a Food and Resource Center affiliated with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. The agency helps those in need with food, utilities, rent assistance, informational classes and provides referrals to other agencies in North Central Oklahoma. For more information about NERA call 580-765-5372 or visit www.nera-frc. org.