A new MANNA FoodBank center in Franklin will allow the agency to provide fresher food to the elderly, poor and hungry.

The new center has a walk-in cooler to keep fresh produce to supplement the canned, boxed and frozen foods the food bank been providing.

The Food Bank is a clearinghouse for surplus food from grocery stores and restaurants. The food is redistributed to programs like Meals on Wheels, soup kitchens and other charity organizations that feed people. The Franklin center distributes nearly 37,000 pounds of food monthly.

The new center was funded by a grant from the Janirve Foundation, a private donation from lifelong Franklin resident Mayme Keith, and contributions from local businesses and other individuals.

The Franklin Branch is located at 509 Depot St. in Franklin. For more information call 828.369.2550.