Block Party at the Overland Food Pantry
Thursday, September 21, 2023
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Come and unite with neighbors, volunteers, and local businesses as we rally together to combat hunger in our local community. We want to share with you how we help feed our neighbors in need – and have fun while we do it! Guided tours of the Overland Food Pantry will be available, accompanied by music, exciting games, delectable food, and above all, a strong sense of community. We hope you will join us!
Overland Food Pantry
The St. Vincent de Paul Overland Food Pantry places a strong emphasis on sustainability and collaborating with community partners to gather the food and household items we distribute. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers, we are able to efficiently manage the operations of the Overland Food Pantry with just one full-time staff member. Despite our lean approach to food and staffing costs, there are still financial requirements associated with running the Overland Food Pantry. These expenses encompass everything from the fuel necessary for collecting the acquired food to maintaining the functionality of refrigerators, freezers, and keeping the lights on – the operation of the Overland Food Pantry is indeed a significant undertaking. Our operation is made possible through the support of our St. Vincent de Paul network and our local community. Each week, more than 750 individuals receive food from the Overland Food Pantry. To continue our mission and serve our community, we need your help!
Our Neighbors
The St. Vincent de Paul Overland Food Pantry provides essential food assistance to alleviate the challenges faced by individuals and families in our community. Each week, the Overland Food Pantry distributes food and household goods every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 am – 12 pm. Those in need are welcomed to receive food once per month. Throughout 2023, there has been a significant surge in community members seeking support from the Overland Food Pantry. This increase can be attributed to rising inflation, reductions in food stamp and SNAP programs, and exacerbated by Idaho’s recent decision to not participate in the Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) program which provides meals to school children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals, further intensifying the challenges faced by those in need.
Our Neighborhood
The USDA Economic Research Service has identified the neighborhood encompassing the area between Overland Road and Hillcrest Drive from Roosevelt Street and Vista Avenue as a low-income and low-access area. This designation classifies the neighborhood as a “food desert,” indicating limited access to affordable, nutritious food options. The St. Vincent de Paul Southwest Idaho Overland Center Food Pantry is strategically located in this neighborhood to address the hunger and food insecurity prevalent within the community, recognizing this critical need. By providing essential food assistance and support, our food pantry aims to alleviate the challenges faced by individuals and families residing in this underserved area, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals and fighting against hunger within the community.
