Gleaners mobile food pantry starts second year of service
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – An initiative that aims to cut crime by providing food to those who need it most, is set to launch for its second year.
The Mobile food pantry of Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana is set to help feed the city’s most needy residents this summer. It’s part of a partnership between the City of Indianapolis’ public safety agencies and Gleaners.
Officials say the theory is simple, feed people who need it the most and crime rates will go down.
Last year was the first year of the program. Gleaners was able to reach more than 62,000 people, with almost 28,000 of those children ages 17 and younger.
The pantries will be manned by volunteers from IMPD, IFD and IEMS as well as the community.
The Pantry will head to the six areas of the city that DPS says have the highest crime rates.
The CARE Mobile Pantry will not only have food but also other services. They will provide mental health services and a reading segment featuring book exchanges, vocabulary cards and nutrition education.
If you come to the pantry, remember you don’t need an ID, and it’s open to the public.
They’re also asking you bring your own bags or boxes.
The program runs Monday through August 27th. The first stop is Mt. Zion Church on E. 38th St. starting at 4 p.m.