By Tom Spalding, Communications Volunteer
The message on Boulevard Place Food Pantry’s recently unveiled outdoor sign reads, “ALL ARE WELCOME.” Much thought went into those three words and that won’t change even during an unprecedented surge in demand.
Since the pantry eliminated geographic boundaries earlier this year, we have served an average of 1,648 households per month April through September, compared to 1,442 households served per month during the same six-month period in 2024.
In October alone, we served 1,969 households—believed to be a new record for us—up from 1,678 in October 2024.
Indeed, our doors are open to all—and many are coming.
Boulevard Place Food Pantry, a special work of the Indianapolis chapter of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, was already seeing rising need. Add to that furloughed federal workers and Hoosiers losing access to SNAP benefits during November (an estimated 120,000 Marion County residents). Each week, we stretch donor dollars to maximize purchasing power and welcome individual drop-ins (Tuesdays from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. are best). We ration carefully, but the shelves empty faster than ever before.
As one veteran volunteer says, “‘All are welcome’ means we’ll feed as many as we can, for as long as we have it.”
New Numbers are In
In fiscal year 2025 (Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025), we surpassed 18,088 households served—a record high and 9% increase over the 16,587 households served in fiscal year 2024.
- 16,170 in FY ‘23
- 15,132 in FY ‘22
- 12,503 in FY ‘21
It’s not certain if we’re going to keep breaking records, but we are committed to serve all who come in. And yet, there is hope—because anyone can help. If you feel angst, take action.
Donating online is a great way to contribute, since we can maximize $1 in food purchases better than an individual. We’re happy, though, to take any other non-perishable food or hygiene items. Tuesdays between 7:30-9:30 a.m. are the best times to do that.
Special Recognition
We receive donations of money and food from a variety of places and people, but we never forget the contributions the five parishes that support the pantry:
- St. Thomas Aquinas
- Christ the King
- Immaculate Heart of Mary
- St. Joan of Arc
- St. Luke
If we didn’t say it enough, thank you!
