How to Get Food

Here is Hope

At Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County, we serve residents of Johnson County through our drive-through delivery operations.

The moms, dads, grandparents and children who come to our food distribution center find themselves facing unexpected life challenges. They fear their children will go to bed hungry. They work hard but still do not have enough money to make ends meet. And they face difficult family situations that leave them struggling to pay their bills.

We are committed to making sure everyone who visits the pantry has access to nutritious and healthy food that will boost their physical health and lessen the stress that comes from wondering where their next meal will come from.

In tough and unpredictable times, we are here for you.

Answers to Questions

About Getting Food

Do I need to sign up before I receive food?

No. Simply show up and we will help you get started. We serve residents of Johnson County only. For your first visit, please bring proof of residency. This can be a picture ID, rent or utility bill or piece of mail with you name and home address. There is no need to feel intimidated or judged. We are here to help you and provide ample, nutritious food.

Where is the Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County located?

We are at 211 Commerce Drive, on the north side of Franklin. Just north of Walmart and Lowe’s, from U.S. 31, turn east on Commerce Drive (KFC on the corner of U.S. 31 and Commerce) and look for our sign on the right.

VIEW MAP

Are there requirements to get food?

We serve residents of Johnson County that earn less than 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, a family of four that earns less than $57,720 is eligible to receive food from us. No income documentation is necessary. However, on your first visit, we will ask to see proof of residency. This can include a rent or utility bill with your home address.

How often can I come to the Interchurch Food Pantry of Johnson County?

Clients may visit the drive-through program at the pantry as frequently as once a week.

What should I expect when I arrive there?

Once your order is ready, you will pull up to one of two tables where our volunteers will place your groceries for you to load into your car. If you are unable physically to load your groceries, we can assist.

How early can I come to pick up food and other items?

The parking lot opens at 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday and at 8 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturday of the month. Please do not arrive prior to this time.

Is there a charge for food, other products?

No, the food we provide is free.

How much food do you get?

Each household receives food for approximately four days.

Do I need to have my shopping card with me every visit?

When you first register with us, you will receive a shopping card. To help us serve you more quickly, it is very important that you present your shopping card each time you visit.

How do most pantries manage food expiration dates?

Expiration dates on food are related to quality not safety. To manage food waste, food products are safe to consume past the date on the label. Always evaluate the quality of the food prior to consumption. At the Interchurch Food Pantry, fresh produce is inspected upon receipt and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, as appropriate. We will not be distributing milk beyond the expiration date. Canned or box goods, in general, last 18 months after the date stamped.

What to Expect

Drive-Through Distribution

We distribute food through a pleasant, efficient drive-through “shopping” approach. Each client selects the food they want by filling out a menu featuring a wide variety of choices, including meats, dairy, produce, bread and canned and boxed food. The groceries are then provided to you to be loaded into your car. Produce is available, many selections being made available in a farmers market shopping experience.

Homebound Delivery Not Available

Homebound deliveries are not available at this time due to capacity constraints. We encourage you to come to our drive-through delivery during our normal hours of operation. If you are unable to drive to the pantry, please consider asking for a ride from a friend, family member or neighbor.

You can also send a proxy to pick up food for you. Your proxy will need your shopper ID card and a note from you.

Lastly, if you are unable to come during our weekday operation hours, we are open the second and fourth Saturday of every month from 9 to 11 a.m.

What We Provide

We provide nutritious food and other personal items, as available, at no cost to you.

Our food is sourced through regional and local sources including Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, Midwest Food Bank, Kroger, Costco, Walmart and Meijer.

Food donations are also received from area sources such as Long’s Bakery, Starbucks, Bob Evans, Sonny’s Chicken, Luca Pizza and Second Helpings.

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