The Horizon Award is a special honor presented each year in recognition of an organization, foundation, or individual providing Northern Illinois Food Bank with a gift surpassing food or financial support.  It is an honor reserved for those demonstrating a committed vision that helps to expand NIFB’s capacity to serve  community members in need.

Northern Illinois Food Bank is pleased to present the Horizon Award to Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd. (ROA).  ROA holds a strong commitment to the overall health of our local community.  This commitment is demonstrated not only in the highest quality multi-specialty orthopedic and musculoskeletal care given to its patients, but also in ROA’s support of organizations and programs having a positive, direct impact on our community.

During the holiday season 2005, the physicians and staff of ROA worked together to raise support for Northern Illinois Food Bank.  This generous partnership was instrumental in helping NIFB launch a new program serving the children of Patriot’s Gateway Center.  The Supper Club, a program begun in January 2006, allows 80 low-income children attending Patriot's Gateway after school program to enjoy a hot, nutritious evening meal. Without this program, many of these children would go to bed on an empty stomach.

Northern Illinois Food Bank extends deep appreciation to Rockford Orthopedic Associates, Ltd. for sharing a vision to help curb hunger and bring hope to children in need.