CATHOLIC CHARITIES CONTINUES TO BE A LIFELINE FOR NEIGHBORS IN NEED

September 10, 2025 - For Catholic Charities in Decatur, the fight against hunger is a daily mission. Serving Macon, Shelby, and Moultrie counties, the organization operates two food pantries—a traditional pantry in Decatur and a mobile pantry that reaches rural neighbors with the help of a refrigerated truck.

The traditional pantry on Prairie Street is open from 9 to 11 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Volunteers begin preparing as early as 7 a.m., packing boxes of perishable and non-perishable food before doors open. By the time distribution begins, a line of families and individuals often wraps around the building. Once a month, neighbors can access the pantry for food assistance.

The mobile pantry makes scheduled stops at partner agencies throughout the service area, but does require pre-registration. For seniors living independently through Catholic Charities’ Faith in Action program, monthly food boxes provide added security and peace of mind.

During distributions, Catholic Charities also runs a pop-up clothing shop with donated items from its resale store, offering another layer of support for neighbors in need.

Impact of the WSOY Community Food Drive

Catholic Charities has been a proud partner of the WSOY Community Food Drive since its beginning. The food and funds raised each year have had a tremendous impact, allowing the pantry to serve some of the area’s most vulnerable populations.

“The effort of the Decatur community to raise funds and food for our local pantries allows us to serve our neighbors with the basic need—food security,” said Amanda Honn, Area Director of Catholic Charities. “We were proud recipients for the original 20-year run and were grateful it's returned.”

Stories of impact are plentiful. One stands out: a grandmother who had recently taken custody of her five grandchildren. Shortly after the food drive, she visited the pantry and was grateful for the options available to help her adjust to her new role.

Meeting Growing Needs

Like many local organizations, Catholic Charities is seeing a greater demand than ever. Families categorized as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) are seeking services after a single crisis, such as a car accident or medical emergency. Seniors, too, are coming in at higher numbers than in years past.

“The loss of a $1.2 million USDA grant has also been huge,” Honn said. “That funding provided more of the foods people requested—protein options like chicken, pork, and hamburger, as well as staples like cheeses, fresh vegetables, and fruit.”

She added that rising food prices and cuts to federal programs have put families in an impossible position. “Neighbors who utilize our services are stretching their dollars to cover basic needs, but now many are reporting skipping meals, relying heavily on local pantry services, or buying cheaper, less nutritious options that can worsen health conditions,” Honn said. “We are also seeing neighbors for the first time—those who have never sought our services before, but are struggling. Community organizations like ours are becoming the lifeline for neighbors in need.”

Breaking Misconceptions

Honn emphasized that food insecurity affects people from all walks of life. “Food insecurity is an equal opportunity deficit and knows no bounds—these are your neighbors that you see and speak to every day.”

The reality of ALICE families makes this clear: many clients are working but still can’t make ends meet. “We are actively living in this reality—with neighbors who have not sought our services before, indicating that they are one decision away from being in a constant crisis,” she said. “Social service agencies across Macon County are linking together to help.”

Stories of Hope

Even in the face of challenges, Honn carries with her moments that underscore the importance of the work. At a Christmas turkey handout in 2024, more than 800 families applied, but only 75 could be served.

“On the day of the distribution, an older lady pulled up and the first thing she said was, ‘Can I give you a hug? You have no idea how much your kindness has saved our Christmas,’” Honn recalled. “She explained that after a medical emergency forced her to quit her job, her husband was working overtime to cover bills. The large meal became their gift, and she was so grateful to create that memory for her family.”

A Call to the Community

Honn hopes the community will once again rally behind the WSOY Community Food Drive.

“Food insecurity is a real threat in our community—it is our neighbors and it is our friends,” she said. “Your generosity makes the difference between an empty plate and a full table. This year’s food drive is about community—being a part of it, supporting it, and taking care of each other.”

To learn more or to give to the WSOY Community Food Drive, click HERE.