INDIANAPOLIS – The BIG Red Box Project was started in October of 2020 by an Irvington couple, Linda and John Kennett, looking for a way to help fight hunger in their community. It is sustained by donations from the community and maintained by its founders. Everyone is welcome to partake in this project.
Food insecurity among Hoosiers is a stubborn issue, with over 25% of Marion County households missing meals weekly due to limited access and tight budgets that have been squeezed even more in recent months according to Feeding America.
Residents can donate food to the boxes at any time, day or night. Please leave only non-perishable packaged food – fresh produce from your garden can be donated to the ICAN Pantry at Downey Ave. Christian Church, 111 S. Downey on Thursdays from 11:30-3:00. Also, no fresh meats can be put into the boxes, or personal care products.
The BIG Red Box Project serves several locations in the area:
- Community Hospital East, 1600 Ritter Ave.
- CenterWell Senior Primary Care (inside), 5430 E. Washington St.
- Irvington UMC, 30 N. Audubon
- Downey Ave. Christian Church, 111 S. Downey
- Good Shepherd Methodist Church, 2015 S. Arlington
Other food and help boxes are located at
- Corner of Beechwood and S. Arlington Ave.
- Irvington Vinyl and Books, 202 S. Audubon
- 5110 E. Michigan St.
Foods that are most appreciated are peanut butter and jelly, spaghetti and meatballs in cans, ravioli in cans, shelf-stable milk, cereal, cans of fruit, crackers, and tuna pouches. Please make sure all cans have a pop-top as not everyone has access to a can opener.
The BIG Red Box Project also has an active Facebook group with updates on food pantries in the area.