Client Choice Food Pantry
At Southwest Community Ministries, we are working to transform our current food pantry into a client choice model that better reflects the needs and dignity of the individuals and families we serve. This project will reimagine our space into a more welcoming, functional environment where neighbors can “shop” for the foods that best fit their households—taking into account personal preferences, cultural traditions, and dietary needs.
By moving away from pre-packed boxes and toward a choice-based system, we aim to reduce food waste, improve access to nutritious options, and ensure that the food provided is both useful and meaningful to those we serve. Just as importantly, this new model allows us to build stronger relationships with our neighbors, creating space for conversation, trust, and community connection during each visit.
To make this vision a reality, we are renovating our current facility to better support a grocery-style layout, including updated flooring, reconfigured spaces, and improved flow throughout the pantry. These changes will help us create a safer, more open, and more welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors.
If you would like to support this project and help bring a more dignified and empowering pantry experience to our community, we welcome your partnership. Donations and contributions directly support these renovations and help ensure we can continue meeting the growing needs of our neighbors.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5/1/2026
Southwest Community Ministries Receives Lift a Life Foundation Grant to Transform Food Pantry
Southwest Community Ministries (SWCM) is proud to announce it has received a grant from the Lift a Life Novak Family Foundation to support a transformative renovation of its food pantry, allowing the organization to transition to a client choice model that better serves individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
The funding will be used to renovate SWCM’s current pantry into a more functional, safe, and welcoming environment. Planned improvements include reconfiguring the layout, leveling floors, and creating a space that allows for proper shopping aisles and enhanced accessibility. Additional updates will ensure that storage and office areas are safely separated while maintaining a warm, community-centered atmosphere. While this generous grant marks a significant step forward, it represents $10,000 of a $30,000 renovation project. Southwest Community Ministries continues to seek additional funding and community support to fulfill the vision of a client choice pantry and complete the necessary facility improvements. If you would like to contribute to this project you can make a direct donation at www.southwestcommunityministries.org/donate.
“This grant is an incredible investment in the dignity of our neighbors,” said Sarah Langmeyer, SWCM Executive Director of Southwest Community Ministries. “Moving to a choice pantry model allows the individuals and families we serve to select foods that best meet their needs, preferences, and cultural traditions, just like they would in a grocery store.”
Unlike traditional pre-packed food distribution, a choice pantry empowers clients to make their own selections, improving access to nutritious food while reducing waste. This model respects dietary restrictions and personal preferences, ensuring that food is more likely to be used and enjoyed. It also creates meaningful opportunities for staff and volunteers to build relationships with clients, fostering trust and strengthening the sense of community.
The redesigned space will allow SWCM to not only better meet the immediate needs of its neighbors but also create a more engaging and supportive experience for those who walk through its doors. “We are deeply grateful to the Lift a Life Foundation for their support and belief in our mission,” said Sarah Langmeyer. “This project will have a lasting impact, helping us serve our community with more compassion and efficiency.”
For more information about Southwest Community Ministries or to learn how to support this initiative, please visit www.supportswcm.org or contact us directly at 502-935-0310.
households helped in 2025
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