About
Our key values are integrity, respect, compassion, collaboration, stewardship, and excellence.
We have been an independent ministry of New Life Baptist Church since 2008.
Why We Exist
The Need in Putnam County
Indiana is among the 11 states with the highest food insecurity rates, with 13.6% of its 2.65 million households affected, and 5.7% experiencing severe food insecurity. In Putnam County, 4,490 residents face food insecurity, with 45% ineligible for programs like SNAP or WIC. The county’s nine food pantries and two mobile pantry sites help address needs not covered by federal programs.
Our History
How We Started & How We've Grown
New Life Food For Life aims to assist those struggling to feed themselves and their families due to unemployment, illness, or temporary setbacks. Established in 2008 by volunteers, the pantry began with a small room and has expanded to four rooms with five freezers and two refrigerators. We partner with organizations like The Putnam County Foundation, Gleaners Food Bank, Kroger, Walmart, and the US Post Office Food Drive, relying on church funding, community donations, and grants, including from Walmart Distribution and Walmart Store.
Our Costs
What We Need
We currently spend about $1,900 per month on food—$1,400 at Gleaners for discounted items and $500 locally for items not available there. With the increasing number of families using our pantry, this expense is expected to rise. Each month, Executive Director Patty Adams and Marlene Lamb, both licensed food handlers, assess and order the needed items from Gleaners. All other pantry expenses are covered by volunteers or the church, so all funds received directly support food purchases.
Board of Directors
The People Behind the Scenes
| Position | Member |
|---|---|
| President | Patty Adams |
| Secretary / Treasurer | Roberta Blake |
| Board Member | Marlene Lamb |
| Board Member | Marilyn Sturgeon |
| Board Member & Grant Writer | Kathy Vanlandingham |
| Advisor | Scott Kallem |
