FoodNet – The Greater Acadiana Food Bank217 Surrey StreetLafayette, LALemel Jones, Executive DirectorPhone: 232-3663 (FOOD)Cell: 787-1356Fax: 232-3799email: foodnet@brcoxmail.com

FOODNET TAPS FOOD BANKING VETERAN AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

LAFAYETTE – May 2, 2011 - Lemel Jones has been named the Executive Director of FoodNet – The Greater Acadiana Food Bank. Her responsibilities include developing programs to raise awareness of hunger issues in the community in order to strengthen the efforts of FoodNet- The Greater Acadiana Food Bank that receives donated food, which is distributed to thousands of qualified recipients in and around Lafayette Parish.

“Lemel’s experience and passion for helping those in need will assist FoodNet in better fulfilling our mission,” said Carol Wong, FoodNet Board President. “We are very proud to have a professional with her background in community outreach and food banking join our team.”

The former Executive Director Mary Ellen Citron is retiring and will remain on staff as a volunteer. Her dedication and years of service are very much appreciated by FoodNet and the community, said Wong.

Jones background includes a wide range of experience in food banking as well as leadership in programs relating to hunger issues. At Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana, which serves 23 parishes, Jones began as the Community Outreach Manager and was later promoted to Chief Programs Officer. In 2007, she was awarded the Bill Emerson Leadership Award by the Congressional Hunger Center in Washington, D.C.

“I am honored to be able to lead the FoodNet into the next decade and beyond,” said Jones. “Together we will help feed thousands who are struggling through these hard economic times. Drawing upon my years of experience in the non-profit arena, I know I can make a difference. I look forward with excitement in working with the established community supporters and volunteers to better serve Acadiana.”

Jones holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science/Public Administration from Norfolk State University where she graduated Cum Laude. She is originally from Morgan City, LA.

FOODNET, a non-profit food bank serving Lafayette Parish. The food distributed by FOODNET is donated by our community, grocers, and collaborative partnership with Second Harvest Warehouse and Distribution Center. FoodNet is celebrating 25 years of serving the community.

Facebook: FoodNet- The Greater Acadiana Food Bank for additional information