Building Community Through Food: Pantry & Free Produce Wednesdays

September 3, 2025 | Written by Tunesha Ruccio, Director of Community Programs

On any given Wednesday, you’ll see neighbors, families, and friends stopping by Community Action of Southern Indiana. Some are picking up fresh fruits and vegetables to cook a healthy meal. Others come later in the month, knowing they’ll find pantry staples to help stretch their groceries for the week. What’s happening is more than food distribution — it’s community in action.

The Food Pantry: A Helping Hand Once a Month

Thanks to our partnership with Dare to Care Food Bank, our Food Pantry opens its doors every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM. Shelves are stocked with a wide variety of canned goods, pantry staples, and household essentials that help families bridge the gap when times are tough. This monthly resource provides not just food, but relief and peace of mind.

Free Produce Wednesdays: Fresh and Nourishing

But we know it’s not just about filling bellies — it’s about nourishing them. That’s why, in partnership with Dare to Care, we host Free Produce Wednesdays. Every Wednesday from 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (while supplies last), seasonal fruits and vegetables are available to the community. Families can take home fresh, healthy food options without worrying about the cost.

What Our Neighbors Are Saying

The true impact of these programs is best shared by the people who participate:

• L. Gantt: “Every little bit helps.”
  
  

• K. Small: “I’m thankful you are here. Everything is so high anymore. You helped a lot.”
  
  

• A. Horrell: “Appreciate it! Makes a difference.”
  
  

Their words remind us why this work matters — every bag of groceries or produce is more than food, its hope, relief, and encouragement.

Why It Matters

We believe food brings people together. Sharing a meal, preparing fresh vegetables, or knowing you have what you need in the pantry gives families not only nourishment but peace of mind. Together with Dare to Care, our goal is to build stronger, healthier communities where no one has to struggle alone.

How You Can Join In

If you or someone you know could use a little extra support, please stop by!

• Food Pantry: 3rd Wednesday of the month, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
  
  

• Free Produce Wednesdays: Every Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (while supplies last)
  
  

Whether you come for pantry staples or a bag of fresh produce, we hope you’ll feel the sense of care, dignity, and community that makes these programs so special. Learn more here.