Indiana Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle, along with the Pacers Foundation, actively supports the “Drive & Dish” program, which provides fresh produce and other food items to families in need in Indianapolis. The program is a partnership with Gleaners Food Bank, and also involves community organizations like the Edna Martin Christian Center and Christamore House. In addition to his involvement with Drive & Dish, Carlisle has also been vocal about raising awareness for food insecurity in Indiana during the NBA Finals.
Here’s a more detailed look:
- Drive & Dish:This program, funded by the Pacers Foundation, the Division of Community Nutrition & Food Policy, and Coach Carlisle, distributes boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, and other items to families.
- Partnerships:The program works with organizations like Gleaners Food Bank, the Edna Martin Christian Center, and Christamore House.
- Impact:The program has reached hundreds of families and distributed over 16,000 boxes of food.
- Carlisle’s Advocacy:Carlisle has used the platform of the NBA Finals to bring attention to the issue of food insecurity in Indiana, emphasizing the need for logistical support to address the problem.
- Financial Contributions:Carlisle and the Pacers have made financial donations to the program. For example, in February 2024, Carlisle announced a $110,000 donation from Klay South for Drive & Dish
