A New Chapter, Rooted in Impact

A New Chapter, Rooted in Impact

Every day in our community, families are making impossible choices.

Groceries or rent.
Childcare or transportation.
A meal today or gas in the car for the week.

For thousands of our neighbors, Freestore Foodbank is where they turn when options run out—and food needs to show up at the table.

That need is growing. And at this critical moment, Freestore Foodbank is stepping into a new chapter of leadership.

We are proud to welcome Kreg Keesee as our new President & CEO. “Kreg brings a proven track record of building high-performing teams and turning strategy into action,” board Chair Dwinelva Zackery said. “We are confident he is the right leader to guide Freestore into its next chapter.”

Most recently, Kreg served as Interim Chief Financial and Operating Officer at The Springer School and Center. His previous leadership roles include executive positions at Cold Jet, Michelman, Sun Chemical Corporation, and The Procter & Gamble Company.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kreg Keesee brings a deep commitment to the Cincinnati region and the people we serve in his capacities as:

• Member, Cincinnati Regional Chamber Board of Directors
• Fundraising and Strategy Committees, United Way of Greater Cincinnati
• Former Board Chair, Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA)

Kreg Keesee
President & CEO
Freestore Foodbank

Leading with Purpose—and Listening First

Kreg understands that this role isn’t about one person. It’s about people—our neighbors, our partners, and you.

“Freestore Foodbank is an organization with a remarkable legacy, dedicated staff, and an essential mission. I am honored to step into this role and look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside our team and partners to meet our community’s evolving needs.”

As he begins, Kreg isn’t rushing to change direction. He’s starting by listening—spending time with staff, volunteers, and families to understand what’s working and where we can do even more.

“I’m not here to replace what’s been built. I’m here to honor it and build upon it.”

Built on a Strong Foundation—And Growing Need

For 55 years, Freestore Foodbank has grown into the largest emergency food provider in our region—serving tens of millions of meals each year and partnering with hundreds of local organizations to reach families where they are.

That foundation is strong.

But today, more families than ever are struggling to keep food on the table. Food insecurity is rising, and the pressures facing households—from housing costs to wages to higher energy costs to the price of a gallon of gas—mean more people are turning to Freestore Foodbank and its network of community partners for help.

That’s why this moment matters.

And you are part of this story.

Because of supporters like you:

• A parent doesn’t have to skip dinner so their child can eat
• A family can face a tough week without going hungry
• A neighbor in crisis finds stability—and dignity

As Kreg begins his leadership, one thing remains unchanged:
Working in partnership with our community to end hunger.

“Freestore Foodbank is an organization with a remarkable legacy, dedicated staff, and an essential mission.”

Moving Forward—Together

“What gives me hope is the network we have—a mission-driven team, hundreds of partner organizations, thousands of volunteers, and a generous community that steps up again and again.”

This next chapter isn’t just about a new CEO.
It’s about recommitting to the work ahead—and the people we serve.

It’s about ensuring that no neighbor faces hunger.

And it’s about continuing to build a hunger-free, healthy, and thriving community—together.