Hunger isn’t just in third world countries, it’s right here in our own community.

You may not know Jerry—who’s 63-years-old with cancer—or Melissa, or James—who lost his mother and has mental health challenges—but they receive groceries at St. Vincent de Paul Louisville’s Food Pantry.

“Some of their stories are really heartbreaking,” said JoAnn Haner, a longtime volunteer. “And it’s not easy to take your groceries because they’re heavy … you may live on 8th street and it’s hard to get those there or you’re going on the bus.”

Nine out of ten times, clients don’t drive, so they walk several miles to the Food Pantry, which is in a former garage and warehouse on the SVDP campus. It serves our existing clients and those in the surrounding Smoketown and Shelby Park neighborhoods.

Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., clients receive fresh produce, frozen meats, poultry, fish, and pantry staples. This is all made possible because of the two dozen volunteers and influx of donations from Dare to Care, SVDP conferences, and individuals.

“A mere thank you is not enough for the individuals that give of their time in the Food Pantry every week,” said Donna Young, SVDP’s Director of Conference Affairs & Volunteer Services. “Those who make regular donations of perishable items are equally appreciated. The dedication to serving and feeding our guests is remarkable.”

For example, in March and April, Dare to Care donated a total of 36,019 pounds of food to our pantry, which is an estimated in-kind gift of $23,541.83.

“Our partnership with SVDP is so critical because it meets both of our missions and what we’re essentially looking to do is really to help all of our neighbors reach their full potential,” said Vincent James, CEO of Dare to Care. “They all have the opportunity to do that when you have organizations like St. Vincent de Paul.”

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Source: St. Vincent de Paul Louisville July 2023 Good Samaritan Newsletter