INDIANAPOLIS – The Lawrence Township Hunger Coalition recently announced that Community Health Network took over day-to-day operational management of The Cupboard effective Friday, July 1.
The Cupboard, a food pantry that serves residents of Lawrence Township and assists an estimated 300 families per week, provides healthier food options and helps relieve the strain caused by food insecurity.
“The Cupboard plays an important role for the residents of this community and we are proud to be able to do our part to take that role into the future,” said Joe Kessler, Community Health Network chief financial officer. “Our partnership in this effort aligns well with our mission, and serves as a tangible example of our commitment to this community. This is about enhancing health and well-being, and viewing The Cupboard as a site of care — one of 250 such sites within Community Health Network.”
Studies have shown that hunger can drastically challenge a community and diminish the quality of life for those wrestling with food insecurity.
“When The Cupboard became a reality in 2014, the idea was always, with the financial assistance of the Trustee’s Office, to establish it as a resource for those in need and then transition to financial independence with the help of other community partners that shared our vision,” said Russell Brown, Lawrence Township Hunger Coalition president. “While the model is slightly different than originally envisioned, I am happy to have found a sustainable and invested partner in Community Health Network and am proud to see The Cupboard enter its next chapter while continuing to provide a valuable resource to our neighbors in need.”
Construction for The Cupboard was supported by funds from the Lawrence Township Trustee’s office, which will now lease the building to Community.
“We are proud of the services we deliver for our community, and we are excited to continue those services through Community Health Network,” said Steve Talley, Lawrence Township Trustee.
The Cupboard will remain a client-choice food pantry, serving residents through partnerships with Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, Midwest Food Bank, and local religious institutions and businesses.
The food pantry is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the third Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon. The Cupboard is located at 7107 Pendleton Pike. Visit lawrencetownshipcupboard.org or call the Pantry Coordinator at 317-964-0801 with questions.
