Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
In an effort to reduce food insecurity while increasing access to hearing health resources, Warsaw Beltone is teaming up with Combined Community Services to kick off the second annual Hear2End Hunger Food Drive.
Joining 400 participating hearing centers across the country, Warsaw Beltone will serve as a drop-off site for nonperishable food donations and will provide free hearing screenings or $1,000 off a pair of premium hearing aids to those who participate, according to the release from Beltone.
Last year, Warsaw Beltone ranked among the top three locations nationwide for donations, collecting over 400 nonperishable food items. Additionally, the Beltone Foundation awarded a $500 bonus check to Combined Community Services in recognition of the achievement.
“At the heart of this campaign is the belief that everyone deserves access to hearing resources and proper nutrition,” said Beltone hearing specialist Christi Reese.
“By partnering with Combined Community Services, we can tackle two critical needs at once – fighting hunger and promoting hearing health. Building on last year’s momentum, we aim to collect even more donations this year to further support families in Warsaw with the essential resources they need to thrive.”
Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health condition in the U.S., with the World Health Organization estimating that approximately 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing loss. Launched in 2024, the Hear2End Hunger campaign reflects Beltone’s ongoing commitment to supporting local communities.
That connection is made by the U.S.’s rising levels of food insecurity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 13.5% of U.S. households were food insecure at some time during 2023 – a jump from 2022’s 12.8%. What’s more, studies have found that nutrition plays a key role in the development and prevention of age-related hearing loss, underscoring the importance of food access and routine hearing care.
To donate non-perishable food items, visit the office at 346 Enterprise Drive, Warsaw, or call 574-269-6555 to learn more. Donations must be received by Sept. 30.
