Find a Food Pantry or Support in Merrillville, IN

Milk Express in Merrillville, IN is dedicated to ensuring that all infants with medical needs receive the essential nutrition they require through safe, Pasteurized Donor Human Milk (PDHM). Our mission is to provide quick access to high-quality PDHM, giving babies a nurturing start while offering parents the peace of mind they deserve. In addition to our vital milk services, we offer free lactation support, both in person and virtually, and bereavement support for those in need. We understand that the processing fee for PDHM can be a barrier, which is why we have established a Medical Relief Fund to assist families facing financial challenges due to their infants' medical conditions, such as prematurity or failure to thrive. At Milk Express, we are committed to supporting families and promoting the health of our littlest community members.

Located in Merrillville, IN, Financial Assistance for Military Families, in partnership with the American Red Cross and military aid societies, is dedicated to providing essential financial assistance to service members and their families in times of crisis. We offer vital support for emergency needs, which can include funds for urgent travel, burial expenses, and emergency food and shelter. Our compassionate team is available 24/7 to guide applicants through the process of requesting aid, ensuring that military families receive the help they need without unnecessary delays. To apply for assistance, individuals can conveniently submit requests online or connect with the American Red Cross Hero Care Center, prepared to provide their relevant military information for eligibility verification. We are here to ensure that those who serve our nation receive the timely support they deserve.

Emergency Food & Shelter Services in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to providing critical support to migrant and seasonal farmworkers, as well as other rural individuals facing hardship. Our mission is to deliver essential emergency food assistance and shelter to those who may not qualify for other forms of help. We understand the urgent needs in our community and strive to offer a compassionate response, ensuring that those in distress have access to the basic necessities they deserve. Our services extend across Indiana and several other states, including New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Virginia, and Vermont, helping to create a lifeline for vulnerable populations in their time of need.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Merrillville, IN is dedicated to ensuring that low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, along with infants and children up to five years old, have access to vital nutrition and resources. Our program focuses on promoting healthy food habits through comprehensive nutrition education, providing supplemental food assistance, and offering breastfeeding support. We also connect families with essential healthcare services to enhance overall well-being. During COVID-19, we have adapted our services to prioritize the safety of our clients and staff, while continuing to offer crucial support. Families can learn more about accessing our services through local clinics.

Wellness Programs in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to empowering older adults to lead healthier, happier lives through a comprehensive range of health and wellness initiatives. We focus on prevention and education, offering health screenings, physical fitness programs, and nutrition education tailored to help manage and prevent chronic diseases. Our services include valuable insights on diagnosing, preventing, and treating age-related illnesses, along with chronic disease and medication management strategies. We also emphasize fall prevention through evidence-based programming, ensuring that our participants gain the knowledge and support they need to thrive in their golden years.

The Chronic Disease Self Management Program in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to empowering individuals managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic pain, and anxiety. Our program offers essential health education and support, providing practical strategies to cope with pain and fatigue, make better nutrition and exercise choices, and navigate new treatment options. We emphasize effective communication with healthcare providers and family members to enhance understanding and improve health outcomes. Join us to take charge of your health and connect with others on a similar journey.

Located in Merrillville, Indiana, the Nutrition Education Program at Purdue University is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to enhance their nutritional knowledge and practices. Our program provides direct nutrition education, equipping participants with the essential skills needed for healthier eating. Additionally, our Community Wellness Coordinators work towards impactful policy, system, and environmental changes that promote wellness within the community. We invite you to join us in fostering a healthier future through accessible and practical nutrition education.

At Franciscan Health in Merrillville, IN, we are dedicated to providing expectant parents with essential perinatal education classes to support a smooth and confident journey into parenthood. Our engaging and informative programs, such as Virtual Childbirth 101, Virtual Breastfeeding 101, Virtual Baby Care 101, and both virtual and in-person Infant CPR, are thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of new families. To ensure you make the most of these resources, we encourage registration by 24 weeks into your pregnancy so that classes can commence by 28 weeks and conclude by 36 weeks. Our online registration is simple and convenient. Once registered, our friendly team will reach out to confirm your selections and assist with any financial assistance options available, making sure that every parent can access the support they need during this crucial time.

Domestic Violence Support in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to creating a safe haven for individuals affected by domestic violence. Our mission encompasses a holistic approach, providing essential resources such as a robust support network, safety and health education, alongside specialized programs focusing on nutrition, parenting, financial literacy, and self-esteem enhancement. We strive to empower our community by addressing the interconnected challenges of family violence and equipping individuals with the practical skills needed for a healthier and more stable life. Through our compassionate guidance, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to rise above their circumstances and build a brighter future.

Located in Merrillville, IN, Lactation Consulting and Support is dedicated to empowering new and expectant parents through comprehensive baby feeding education and services. We offer a range of free classes designed to prepare families for successful feeding during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond, including specialized sessions on pumping and partner involvement. Our lactation consulting services provide essential support for breastfeeding, breast pumping, and formula feeding, often covered at no cost through most insurance plans. For families without insurance or in need of additional support, we are proud to offer free educational resources to ensure every parent has access to vital feeding information. Join us in nurturing your parenting journey with compassion and expertise as we work together to create a supportive feeding environment for you and your baby.

At Five Loaves & Two Fish Healthy Teaching Kitchen in Merrillville, IN, we are dedicated to promoting health and wellness through our low-cost cooking classes. Our programs create a welcoming and interactive environment where participants of all backgrounds can cook together, share ideas, and gain practical culinary and nutrition knowledge. We offer comprehensive health and nutrition education, guided cooking sessions for individuals and groups, along with valuable insights into chronic disease management and prevention. While our in-person classes are available in the Central Florida area, we also provide virtual sessions to ensure access for participants nationwide. Join us in fostering healthier lifestyles and building a supportive community through cooking.

The Healthy Lifestyle Program in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to empowering individuals to transform their health and reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes through sustainable lifestyle changes. This evidence-based program, in alignment with the National Diabetes Prevention Program by the CDC, offers participants the chance to engage in a supportive, year-long journey that begins with weekly sessions for the first six months, transitioning to monthly meetings for the latter half of the year. Participants benefit from a CDC-approved curriculum, essential tools for weight loss, enhanced physical activity, and stress management, alongside the guidance of a trained lifestyle coach. Our community of participants creates an encouraging environment that promotes shared goals and lasting health improvements, making it easier for you to take proactive steps towards a healthier future.

The Eating Smart and Moving More Program in Merrillville, IN, is dedicated to empowering community members with valuable skills for healthy living. Our hands-on approach provides nutrition education that emphasizes practical techniques for meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking, ensuring you can make nutritious choices every day. By participating in our program, you'll gain essential knowledge to foster a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your family. We invite you to register for one of our interactive lessons and take the first step towards a more vibrant, health-conscious life.