The ongoing impact of Katie Johnke’s work for hunger relief has been recognized by Great Plains Food Bank. Johnke, nutrition and health promotion coordinator with Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health, has been selected as a Hunger Relief Champion for 2024. The award will be presented to her by Melissa Sobolik, Chief Executive Officer of the Great Plains Food Bank, along with other staff members, to honor Johnke on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 11 a.m.
The Hunger Relief Champion Awards recognize outstanding individuals and partners who demonstrate exceptional leadership, generosity, and dedication in the fight against hunger. Recipients like Johnke embody the values of passion, service, and innovation, making profound contributions toward a hunger-free North Dakota.
“I’m truly humbled to receive the Hunger Relief Champion Award. It’s a reflection of the incredible collaboration happening across our community. None of this work happens alone, and I’m so grateful to be in it alongside so many dedicated people,” said Johnke.
Johnke has been instrumental in developing healthcare programs and successfully launched the Wellness Pantry at Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health in March 2020. This pantry has since provided 11,909 pounds of food to 858 clients, addressing not only food accessibility but also tackling other social determinants of health barriers.
Her work demonstrates a deep commitment to supporting neighbors and continuously finds ways to support the movement to end hunger.