The Southside Filling Station
More Than Food, A Client-Choice Food Pantry
"Hunger is not a problem. It is an obscenity. How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."
- Anne Frank -
Now Open: Tuesday - Thursday
At SENT, Inc., we believe access to healthy food is a fundamental right. That's why we're thrilled to announce the launch of the Southside Filling Station, launched in August 2024! Hear SENT, Inc.'s Board Chairman, Johnathan Sublet, speak about this exciting initiative.
Starting the week of September 2nd, 2024, we will limit our service to 50 families per pantry day, which still allows us to serve 600 families each month—12 times our original goal.
More Than Just a Pantry: Client Choice Empowerment
The Southside Filling Station isn't your typical food pantry.
We believe in empowering residents with dignity and respect. Through our innovative Client Choice model, you'll be able to select a variety of high-quality food items tailored to your household's needs and preferences once a month.
Not only are we offering a client choice model, but we’re also focusing on connecting clients to other resources their families might need. We have a team of case managers focused on helping clients access the resources they may be eligible for.
HOURS OF OPERATION
- Tuesdays - 9:30am-11:30am
- Wednesdays - 12pm-2pm
- Thursdays - 3:30pm -7:30pm
What Makes the Southside Filling Station Different:
- We serve without requiring proof of income.
- We welcome you as often as needed, without limiting monthly visits.
- We integrate proactive case management with pantry services.
- We offer discount massage therapy on Wednesdays. [ SCHEDULE HERE ]
- We provide medical services through Sunflower Wellness Solutions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. [ MORE INFO ]
- We offer trauma-informed occupational therapy through Pediatric Connections on Tuesdays. [ MORE INFO ]
Fresh Produce, Pantry Staples, and More
Partnering with Harvesters, a leading food bank, and other local organizations, we offer a diverse array of options, including:
- Fresh Produce
- Dairy Products
- Eggs
- Meat
- Hygiene & Cleaning Products
- Non Perishable Pantry Items
**Available Products Will Vary**
Addressing Food Insecurity in Hi-Crest
We're excited to share a new resource for our community—a Local Food Pantry Calendar that highlights food resources within a 2-mile radius of Southside Filling Station. This calendar includes detailed information about each pantry, their hours, and any special holiday offerings. Please be sure to call ahead to confirm the hours as they may change, especially around holidays. We update this calendar monthly, so check back regularly to stay informed about local food resources!
The results of a recent Health Ratings report for Shawnee County highlight the urgent need for initiatives like the Southside Filling Station. With rising poverty rates, limited access to education and childcare, and financial hardships, it's clear that our community needs support now more than ever.
- 15% of adults report fair or poor health.
- Adults reported experiencing poor physical health for an average of 3.4 days in the past month.
- 8% of babies are born with low birth weights.
These statistics underscore the importance of food security and access to healthy choices. The Southside Filling Station aims to address this critical need in Hi-Crest.
CREATE Better Health Classes (Shawnee County Extension SNAP-Ed Program)
Learn, Cook, and Earn Free Kitchen Gear!
Ready to level up your cooking skills and make delicious, budget-friendly meals at home? Join our FREE Create Better Health Classes through the Shawnee County Extension's SNAP-Ed Program at the Southside Filling Station—and get rewarded for showing up!
What’s in it for you?
- Learn how to prepare low-cost, nutritious meals using pantry staples and everyday ingredients.
- Connect with others in a fun, supportive setting.
- BONUS: Complete all 4 classes and receive your choice of free kitchen equipment (up to $30)!
Class dates and times are announced regularly on social media—stay tuned!
Make healthier choices, save money, and upgrade your kitchen—all for FREE!
Don’t miss out! Space is limited, so express your interest and sign up today.
Collaboration for a Healthier Community
SENT, Inc. is deeply committed to building a stronger, healthier community for all. We are dedicated to collaboration, inclusivity, and results-driven action. We've partnered with organizations like:
Together, we can make a difference!
Get Involved
- Stay Tuned! Check back soon for updated information and more as details are finalized.
- Watch the Video: Hear SENT, Inc.'s Board Chairman, Johnathan Sublet, speak about this exciting initiative.
- Donate: Help us fill the shelves and nourish our community by donating to the Southside Filling Station.
- Volunteer: You can volunteer your time at the Southside Filling Station by greeting, acting as an intake assistant, a personal shopper, restocking, organizing, or cleaning.
- Questions? Call Us (785-783-2535, ext. 104) or Email (behavioralhealth@senttopeka.com)