FOOD PANTRY
The HELP Center's Food Pantry Program is dedicated to eliminating food insecurity by providing nutritious meals and essential grocery items to individuals and families in need. Our pantry offers a wide range of food options to support a balanced diet, ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry. Through our Food Pantry Membership, participants can access our services on a regular basis, tailored to meet their unique needs.
Membership provides not only food assistance but also educational resources on healthy eating, meal planning, and budget-friendly cooking tips. We believe that access to healthy food is a fundamental right, and through our program, we aim to empower families, enhance well-being, and foster a stronger, more resilient community.
While our core service is food distribution, we go beyond merely filling bags with food. Our goal is to meet the broader needs of our community members. We offer referrals to other agencies for specific needs and coordinate with local organizations to provide comprehensive support. Every person who comes through our doors is treated with dignity and respect, viewed as a unique individual who becomes a valued member of The HELP Center Family.
Our pantry supplies free fresh produce, canned goods, and healthy frozen items, providing valuable meal supplementation. By doing so, we help those in need maintain their independence and dignity, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive.
Impact
The Food Pantry Program serves hundreds of individuals and families each year, helping to reduce hunger and improve food security in our community. By addressing immediate food needs, the program also helps participants focus on other aspects of their lives, such as employment, education, and personal development.
204
2021 Impact
205
2020 Impact
608
2022 Impact
696
2023 Impact
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What are the requirements to sign up?To qualify for The HELP Center’s Food Pantry Program, individuals must meet the following criteria: Be at least 18 years of age Reside in Middle Tennessee Have a household income below the poverty level, based on household size Have reliable transportation to pick up food boxes These requirements help us ensure that we are providing essential support to those most in need within our community.
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What are your hours of operation?The HELP Center’s food pantry is now accepting new registrations and continuing scheduled pickups Monday-Wednesday from 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM. Please be aware that we are closed daily from 1:00 PM to 2:05 PM. Our hours of operation may vary based on availability, deliveries, and other operational needs. To ensure we’re open, please call ahead before visiting.
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What is your food pantry membershipThe HELP Center Food Pantry Membership offers individuals and families in need access to vital food resources and additional support services. As a member, you can pick up a food box once a month, providing essential items to help meet your nutritional needs. In addition to food assistance, members can receive case management services. Our case managers can connect you to resources for SNAP outreach, housing, transportation, financial assistance, and other social services, offering a more comprehensive approach to support your journey toward stability and self-sufficiency.
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Whats included in the boxes?The HELP Center's food boxes are thoughtfully curated to provide a balanced selection of nutritious items to support individuals and families. Each box typically includes a variety of meats, non-perishable goods, fresh fruits, nuts, beverages, and more. Please note that item availability may vary, and we cannot guarantee specific items will be available during your scheduled pick-up. Our goal is to provide a well-rounded assortment of food to help meet your needs while supporting your overall well-being.