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Batavia Food Assistance
Food banks, soup kitchens and food pantries in Batavia IL
| Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry Batavia, IL 60510 630.879.3784 |
Details: The Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry came into being as a result of the economic recession in 1981. Batavia churches were receiving many requests for food by residents who were unemployed and unable to provide for their families. In response to those needs, on November 26, 1981, the Ministerial Association called together a special meeting of representatives and pastors to discuss ways to establish a central operation where people could come to receive food assistance. After many initial homes, the Pantry moved to its current location, an unused storage building, donated by the City of Batavia. Generous local business people, craftsmen and citizens with expertise, renovated this storage unit into an efficient and functional space. As the pantry continued to grow, the need for a pantry vehicle became apparent. With the support of the Batavia Lions and the community spirit, a van was purchased. The van carries groceries from local stores, schools, and businesses during food drives and normal shopping trips. It is also used to deliver food to shut-ins who need assistance. Because of increasing number of clients and the consequential need to store more food, it became apparent that the building itself was becoming too small. In the fall of 2007, with local financial contributions and donated services and materials, the current addition was completed. In order to service our clients in a more efficient manner, our food pantry adopted the philosophy of Client Choice in October 2007. Client Choice provides the clients more independent and personal choices in selecting their own food versus our old method of bagging groceries based on what food guidelines say each client should get. Today, with the help of volunteers, our clients can select food items that they want and can use, thus eliminating waste. Currently the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry serves over 400 families every month. |