Feed My People, one of the largest food and care providers in the region, revealed plans July 22 for a modern “your choice” food pantry at its existing location at 171 Kingston Dr.

The project will convert a set of outdated rooms into food shopping experience  similar to a grocery store. The location provides more than 1,000 people per week with food, clothes, employment counselling and other services. 

“When our shoppers get to make their own food decisions rather than receiving a preselected box of food, nutritional status improves and waste is dramatically reduced,” Executive Director Karen Lanter said. “We’ll be able to see what healthy food choices are more popular and tailor our food procurement to match. It’s a way to show dignity and respect.”

Upgrades will include better lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and a new intake and waiting area. 

Fundraising for the $600,000 renovation is currently taking place, with construction potentially starting in September. The Mabee Foundation awarded Feed My People a $125,000 matching grant, and the Staenberg Family Foundation, the St. Louis Port Authority, the Staenberg Group and The Factory at The District all have made major contributions.

The pantry will operate through construction, keeping its normal hours of operation — 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Saturdays. 

For more information visit https://www.feed-my-people.org.