History of Louisville Community Food Bank

In the early 60’s, when Ray Van Meter was the local Louisville pharmacist on Main Street, he knew of clients that were not only having trouble paying their bills, but also in need of food. Ray and his wife, Claire, would take it upon themselves to personally deliver food to these clients. Ray and Claire were members of the Louisville United Methodist Church and asked the parishioners to donate food and supplies as well. Food and supplies were stored in Van Meters basement until early 2000.

The identified need continued to grow and at one point over 250 boxes were assembled for quarterly deliveries.

Since 2005, the LCFB evolved into a community wide not for profit Food Bank mostly serving the 80027 zip code. It is staffed totally by volunteers and partners with Community Food Share. Local schools, Louisville Chamber and Superior Chamber have held annual food drives. Whole Foods in Superior donates weekly their overstock, and LCFB receives donations from the community.

In 2011, LCFB wanted to appeal to more personalized service. Instead of mostly packing boxes quarterly, clients started coming to the Food Bank to “shop” weekly, no income means asked. Since 2019, due to the pandemic, clients now receive curb-side service, including a bag of non-perishables, gallon of milk, eggs, meat, bread, produce and specialty items (including gluten free, low carb, non-dairy, cheese, etc.)

There have never been any administrative costs. 100% of all donations go directly to procurement, operational costs and delivery. Louisville Police, Fire, Social Services and the Lions Club all help with referring clients and delivery of food.

Louisville Community Food Bank continues to be a quiet and VERY personalized not-for-profit Food Bank located at 741 Jefferson – Louisville. Hours 9 AM -noon, every Tuesday and Claire Van Meter is still involved.