1st Time Visitor

Doing anything for the first time can be intimidating, especially when you are experiencing several stressful changes all at once.  St. Mary’s Choice Food Pantry is easy to use and there are friendly volunteers available to help you during your first visit and beyond. This page will walk you through your initial visit, from registration to departure, giving you an idea of what to expect so that you can relax and have a positive experience.

WHEN IS THE FOOD PANTRY OPEN?
The Food Pantry is typically open on the fourth Monday of the month (unless it is a holiday), between 4:30 and 6:00 pm. The date may occasionally change, so it is important to check the website’s CALENDAR for the most current information.

WHERE IS THE PANTRY LOCATED?
The Pantry is located at 309 W 7th St., inside of the Johnston Hall building. The entrance is directly across the street from the Lorain Metropolitan Housing building.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I QUALIFY FOR THE PANTRY?
St. Mary’s Choice Food Pantry follows the same income guidelines as the Ohio DJFS Emergency Food Assistance Program.          CLICK HERE for the qualifying income chart.

WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME TO THE PANTRY?
You must present a Picture ID and proof of residency.

HOW DO I GET INTO THE PANTRY?
You must get a ticket from the officer by 6pm or you will not be permitted to enter the pantry. Our guests form a line outside of the 7th street entrance just prior to the opening of the pantry. Officers hand out tickets to anyone wishing to visit the pantry. When the officer calls your ticket number, proceed to the doors and show the officer your ticket to gain entrance.

WHAT HAPPENS INSIDE OF THE PANTRY?
Once inside the pantry, visitors will have specific directions to follow to keep things moving smoothly. CLICK HERE to view directions once inside the pantry.

IS THE PANTRY HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE?
Yes. Although we discourage the use of wheeled carts, Wheelchairs and strollers (when there are age appropriate children present) can easily navigate the Pantry area.