Feeding the Community: A Comprehensive Guide to Johnson County's Food Pantries

Johnson County, Indiana, is home to a diverse network of food pantries and outreach programs dedicated to addressing food insecurity and supporting those in need. This comprehensive guide explores the various resources available, their locations, hours of operation, and eligibility requirements, empowering residents to access the assistance they require during challenging times.

Nourishing the Heartland: Connecting Families with Essential Food Resources

Berean Baptist Church: Serving with Compassion

Nestled in the heart of Greenwood, Berean Baptist Church's food pantry offers a lifeline to those in need. Operating on the second Wednesday of each month from noon to 2 p.m., the pantry welcomes Johnson County residents who present a valid photo ID as proof of residency. This community-driven initiative ensures that no one is left behind, providing a monthly opportunity for individuals and families to access essential food items.

Edinburgh Food Pantry: Embracing Inclusivity

In the charming town of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Food Pantry stands as a beacon of hope. Open on the first Saturday and third Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., this pantry extends its services to all who seek assistance, regardless of residency requirements. With a welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to serving the community, the Edinburgh Food Pantry is a vital resource for those facing food insecurity.

Grace Point Church: Bridging the Gap

Situated in New Whiteland, Grace Point Church's food pantry operates on Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. Unlike some other pantries, Grace Point's program does not impose residency restrictions, making it accessible to all who are in need. Individuals can visit the pantry by presenting a photo ID or a current utility bill or piece of mail as proof of identity.

Great Harvest Food Pantry: Embracing Diversity

The Great Harvest Food Pantry, an outreach of Grace Assembly of God in New Whiteland, offers a diverse range of services to the community. Open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 3:45 p.m., the pantry also hosts special events on select Saturdays to accommodate Spanish and Burmese-speaking residents. Additionally, the fourth Friday of each month is dedicated to serving the senior community (age 60 and above) from noon to 1:45 p.m.Complementing its food distribution efforts, the Great Harvest Food Pantry also operates the Indiana Diaper Source, providing free diapers, baby wipes, and formula to families in need on the first and third Saturdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m. To access this service, individuals must present a photo ID and the birth certificate or guardianship papers for each child requiring diapers.

Harvest Food Pantry: Nourishing the Body and Soul

Housed within the Saints Francis and Clare Church in Greenwood, the Harvest Food Pantry opens its doors on the second and fourth Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon, as well as the second Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon and the fourth Monday of the month from 5 to 7 p.m. This comprehensive schedule ensures that those in need can access the pantry's resources at their convenience.

The Hub: An Outreach of Impact Christian Church

Operated by Impact Christian Church, The Hub in Franklin serves as a multifaceted resource center, offering not only food but also clothing and household items. Open on Tuesdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m., The Hub welcomes individuals and families in need, providing a compassionate and supportive environment. Donations are also accepted, allowing the community to contribute to the ongoing efforts to support those facing hardship.

Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County: A Centralized Approach

Situated in Franklin, the Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County stands as a centralized hub for food assistance. Open from noon to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 to 11 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays, the pantry serves Johnson County residents through a drive-through, menu-based approach. Proof of residency is required, ensuring that the resources are directed to those within the county.

Johnson County Senior Services: Caring for the Golden Years

Dedicated to supporting the elderly and disabled population of Johnson County, the Johnson County Senior Services program operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at their Whiteland location. In addition to in-person visits, the program also offers delivery services, ensuring that those who are unable to visit the pantry can still access the essential food items they need.

Lord's Locker: Tailored Assistance

The Lord's Locker in Trafalgar caters to specific age groups, offering dedicated service times for senior citizens (Wednesdays, 9 to 11 a.m.) and heads of household (Wednesdays, 1 p.m. for ages 40 to 59, and Thursdays, 6 p.m. for ages 20 to 39). This targeted approach allows the pantry to address the unique needs of different demographic groups within the community. Individuals seeking assistance must bring a photo ID, social security number, and a current utility, rent, or mortgage receipt as proof of residency.

Mount Pleasant Christian Church Impact Center: Convenient Access

The Mount Pleasant Christian Church Impact Center in Greenwood provides food assistance on Thursdays from 9:15 to 9:40 a.m., 12:15 to 12:40 p.m., and 6:15 to 6:40 p.m., as well as on Saturdays from 9:15 to 9:40 a.m. This convenient schedule caters to the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that individuals and families can access the pantry's resources at a time that suits their schedule. Eligibility requirements include providing a photo ID and two pieces of mail with the current address for adults, and a birth certificate or Social Security card for dependents under the age of 18.

New Life Fellowship Church of God: Serving the Whiteland Community

Located in Whiteland, the New Life Fellowship Church of God food pantry opens its doors on the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon, providing essential food items to those in need within the local community.

Our Lady of the Greenwood: Embracing Compassion

Our Lady of the Greenwood, a Catholic church in Greenwood, operates a food pantry that is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., as well as on Wednesdays from 4 to 5:45 p.m. Additionally, the pantry is open on the fourth Saturday of each month from noon to 2 p.m. To access the pantry's services, individuals must provide proof of residence, a photo ID, and meet income qualifications based on household size.

Restoration Church Food Pantry: Serving with Consistency

The Restoration Church Food Pantry in Whiteland opens its doors on the first Thursday of every month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Residents can simply drive up under the church's awning, and the pre-packed food items will be brought out to them, ensuring a convenient and contactless experience.

The Refuge: A Beacon of Hope

Located in Greenwood, The Refuge food pantry operates on Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Open to all Johnson County residents, the pantry welcomes individuals and families to visit once per month, providing them with the essential food items they need to nourish their households.

Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church: Serving Two Counties

The Second Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Franklin extends its reach beyond Johnson County, serving both Johnson and Shelby counties through its I CARE Food Pantry. Open on the second and fourth weekends of each month, the pantry operates on Fridays from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.