Feed My People has been spreading God’s love and compassion to those in need since Carol and John DeGuire founded it in 1982. Although the organization started with a single bag of groceries and the desire to help neighbors, other needs beyond food quickly became evident. Today, Feed My People has two offices and serves more than 1,600 people in South County and High Ridge each week. Annually, the organization provides nearly $4 million worth of food and other assistance.

Food Pantries & Thrift Stores

Feed My People’s South County pantry (171 Kingston Drive) provides groceries up to two times per month to families seeking help, while the High Ridge location (3295 Ottomeyer) offers groceries every two weeks to families seeking help. Both locations are Client Choice Food Pantries, which are set up more like grocery stores than traditional pantries, allowing clients to shop specifically for the needs of their families. This approach cuts down on food waste and helps restore dignity for those in need. The pantries carry a variety of foods throughout the year, with the goal of meeting clients' dietary needs. Long-term and emergency food help is also available to those without housing or enduring other major crises.

Both locations are also home to thrift stores, which are open to the public and provide clients with the opportunity to shop for new and like-new items for their families. The stores are stocked with affordably priced clothing and shoes, household items, small electronics, and other items. Proceeds at the stores support Feed My People’s programming, which means the stores are not only helping those in need now but also those in the future. Shoppers can also buy from the thrift stores online via eBay and Poshmark.

Thrift-store vouchers are available to those who qualify and can be used on items in the stores. This helps those looking for appropriate clothing for a new job or an interview, warm clothing in the winter, or just everyday essentials.

Transformation Program 

Feed My People's Transformation Program aims to get to the root of clients' concerns and help put them on the path to a brighter future. The team’s work includes assistance with utilities and rental, health and wellness, and jobs and careers through a number of programs:

• Healthy Family Programs: Provides access to personal care items and eldercare assistance
• Healthy Kids Programs: Offers access to school supplies, new shoes, newborn layettes, and more
• Healthy Homes Programs: Provides rental and utility assistance and access to necessities including heaters, blankets, fans and more
• Christmas Programs: Assists families during the holidays through Adopt-A-Family and Giving Tree campaigns

The organization's transformation team can also help link clients to other appropriate community support networks and resources, from self-help materials to religious centers to legal services.

How You Can Help

Feed My People is supported by donations from individuals, churches, businesses, and community groups. It is a fully recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, which means donations are tax-deductible in accordance with state, local, and federal laws. There are a number of ways to help the organization:

• Make a Donation: Donations can come in any shape or size, whether monetary or other. Feed My People accepts one-time and automatic monthly monetary donations, as well as items for its food pantries and thrift stores. Special programs and drives are also held throughout the year to help address immediate needs, including warm blankets and heaters or fans, personal-care items, and holiday giving.

• Host A Food Drive or Attend a Fundraiser: Feed My People regularly works with businesses and organizations in the community on fundraisers. Companies and organizations can help by getting involved or sponsoring events.
• Volunteer Your Time: Feed My People is heavily supported by a large team of volunteers. As the community’s needs continue to grow, so does the need for additional volunteers, who can work in the food pantry, help with food donation transportation, stock shelves, do clerical work, or greet and interview clients. Thrift store positions are also available, including for sorting, pricing, and stocking.
• Shop the Stores: With every dollar made or donated going back to Feed My People’s programming, something as simple as buying your next outfit from the thrift store can help support those in need.