Indianapolis Urban League to hold drive-thru meal distribution Tuesday

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Food insecurity has been a major problem for families experiencing financial loss as a result of COVID-19.

The Indianapolis Urban League is doing its part to make sure Hoosiers are fed.

So starting Tuesday at 11 a.m., food boxes will be available for the first 500 families who come through the drive-up food box distribution in the parking lot of Indianapolis Urban League, 777 Indiana Avenue.

The Indianapolis Urban League is partnering with several organizations, including Gleaners Food Bank, to make it happen.

The distribution will operate by social distancing guidelines, so volunteers will be placing items into vehicles. Officials said the process shouldn’t take longer than five minutes but asks that people have a little patience as they are expected a large turnout.

With so many people staying home, grocery bills for some have more than doubled. And when you add a growing list of unemployed, the need intensifies.

“Yes it’s become even more necessary. As a gentle reminder to everyone in our community, we’ve had over 400,000 Hoosiers file for unemployment,” said Indianapolis Urban League President Tony Mason. “So we know that means families are going without income and they may be struggling to put food on the table.”

Officials say the 500 boxes of food equal roughly 1,500 meals.

Those interested in stopping by for the drive-thru are advised to enter the Urban League’s parking lot on the St. Clair Street entrance just off Indiana Avenue.