Household food insecurity affected 12.5% of U.S. households with children in 2021. That equates to 5,000,000 children. Indiana ranks 12th in the U.S. for those most at risk of hunger. That means 1 in 7 children face hunger.
Closer to home, Gleaners Food Bank estimates 24,270 people are food insecure. At risk children total 6,340. That is more children than in Boone, Hendricks, Hancock or Johnson counties.
Even closer to home, the Carmel United Methodist Church (CUMC) Food Pantry experienced a 62% increase in people served from 2021 (7,043) to 2022 (11,397). Thus far in 2023, the numbers are continuing to increase significantly.
OPPC continues to partner with CUMC to help staff and stock its food pantry. Approximately 5,500 of mission monies are targeted to help with operating expenses. Additionally, OPPC supplies 20 dozen eggs to the food pantry each month..
Watch Facebook postings to see what items are needed each week in the food pantry. Then buy 1-2 “extras” as you shop and drop them off at the food pantry door as you drive by. If you buy perishable items, drop these off during open hours on Tuesday (1-7 pm.), Wednesdays (9 am – 1 pm) & Saturdays (9 am – 1 pm). Shoppers are so thankful for fresh fruits and vegetables.
And if you have some extra time, volunteer at the food pantry. Help is needed and appreciated by shoppers and other volunteers alike. It is a very positive experience and only requires a couple of hours of your time. CUMC Food Pantry is located at 621 S. Rangeline Rd. in Carmel. Click on Food Pantry Hours at www.carmelumc.org for more information.
