By Andi Anderson
The Fort Wayne TinCaps have joined forces with Indiana Pork to donate more than 2,200 meals of ground pork to the Community Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Indiana.
This generous contribution follows the team’s successful sale of 2,294 tenderloin sandwiches during their “Hoosier State Tenderloins Series,” presented by Indiana Pork in June.
Each sandwich sold resulted in a meal donation, showcasing the spirit of Hoosiers helping fellow Hoosiers.
Michael Limmer, Vice President of Marketing and Promotions for the TinCaps, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We’re thrilled to have a partnership that results in so much good for our community. The Hoosier State Tenderloins initiative has turned into a significant opportunity to provide over 2,200 meals for local families in need.”
The 2,294 sandwiches sold translated into a donation of 575 pounds of ground pork. Indiana ranks as the fifth-largest pork-producing state in the U.S., with nearly 3,000 local pig farmers dedicated to feeding their communities.
Mark Johnson, a pig farmer and board member of Indiana Pork, emphasized the farmers’ commitment to supporting local food pantries, adding, “Our farmers are happy to donate pork to their local food pantries and are excited to partner with the TinCaps.”
During the Hoosier State Tenderloins celebration, the TinCaps showcased breaded tenderloins on their menu, adopted special uniforms, and held in-game promotions to promote this beloved Indiana sandwich.
The breaded tenderloin sandwich has deep roots in Northeast Indiana, with Nick’s Kitchen in Huntington, just 25 miles southeast of Parkview Field, being a historic provider of these sandwiches since 1908. Nick’s Kitchen is also the first stop on the Tenderloin Trail, which extends throughout Indiana.
Since its debut in 2023, the Hoosier State Tenderloins identity has garnered recognition as a “Best Alternate Identity” in Minor League Baseball and has even appeared on national television via MLB Network.
This initiative not only celebrates Indiana’s culinary heritage but also exemplifies community spirit through significant contributions to local food banks.
Photo Credit: istock-apichsn
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Hogs