Food pantries exist so that people who can’t afford food have the opportunity to eat a healthy meal and help others as well. Believe it or not, there are many food pantries here in Indianapolis.

A few students from key club volunteered at one of these food banks, St. Vincent de Paul. This food pantry is located 3001 E 30th St Indianapolis. Last year they had about 2,700 volunteers. They have quite a few during the winter but could use more during the summer and they’d like more.

They feed about 3,200 households a week and they use a point system to estimate food given out to each family. Each family starts off with 20 points and can use those points to get different kinds of food.

There are many positions helping the food pantry — Food Pantry Manager, Pantry Board Chair, SVDP Indy Council Board member, Pantry Administration Tasks and the Speakers Bureau. They all help the food pantry and in turn help people who can’t afford meals.

This can also be beneficial to volunteers.

“[I] appreciate my blessings; committed to share my time/talent/treasure with those in need; personal gratification in helping; glory is to God,” Donald Striegel, St. Vincent de Paul Pantry Volunteer Coordinator, said.

Students from Key Club who recently volunteered include senior Reem Negash and sophomore J’adore Hatcher.

“I feel like the community is important and played a part in how I was raised so it’s the least we can do,” Negash said

Hatcher agrees.

“I feel better about myself,” Hatcher said.

Food pantries are a big help to the community and helps feed and uplift families everyday. Volunteering can be a good way to help out and make a small but great impact on your community.

Shopping hours are Tuesday/Thursday/Friday/Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. and Thursday evening 5 -7 p.m. (need volunteers for about one hour after closing doors to finish shopping). Home delivery to about 325 homebound clients is on Wednesdays. Prepare bags 7:30 a.m.-11 a.m. with deliveries until 5:30 p.m.

Second Helpings

Indianapolis, IN – 46202

• (317)632-2664

Midwest Food bank

Indianapolis, IN – 46217

• (317) 786-8980

Gleaners Food bank of Indiana Inc.

Indianapolis, IN – 46241

• (317) 925-0191

Lawrence Caring Center – Sharing Place

Indianapolis, IN – 46236

• No phone, but located at 6501 Sunnyside Rd.