Food Pantry in Pontiac Illinois
No one should have to face hunger alone. At First Baptist Church of Pontiac, our Food Pantry exists to serve families and individuals throughout Livingston County who are in need of supplemental food resources. Whether you’re facing a temporary hardship or ongoing challenges, we want you to know that you are welcome here.
Every week, our volunteers prepare, organize, and distribute groceries with care. More than food, this ministry is about compassion, dignity, and hope—meeting practical needs while reminding our neighbors that they are not forgotten.
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All are welcome—find food assistance and support for your family.
WELCOME
About Our Food
Pantry
The Food Pantry at First Baptist Church of Pontiac has been serving the community for many years as part of our mission to love our neighbors in practical, Christ-centered ways. We believe that providing food is one of the most direct and meaningful ways to share God’s love, and we are honored to meet the needs of individuals and families across Livingston County.
Every box or bag of food represents generosity from donors and the compassion of volunteers who sort, stock, and distribute items each week. All food provided is either donated or purchased with donated funds. Because of this, the contents of each food distribution may vary, but our commitment remains the same: to offer healthy, helpful resources that bring relief and dignity to every household we serve.
The pantry is open to all Livingston County residents who meet the eligibility guidelines. We strive to create a welcoming environment where clients are treated with kindness and respect, and where receiving help feels like stepping into a community that cares.
Hours
Hours of Operation
The FBC Pontiac Food Pantry is open during the following hours each week:
Wednesday:
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Friday:
9:00 am – 11:00 am
Clients are welcome to come during either of these times. Please note: food assistance is provided once every 28 days per household.
We are unable to provide food outside of the listed hours. To receive assistance, please arrive during one of our scheduled distribution times.
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INFORMATION
Important
Information
To receive assistance from the First Baptist Church Food Pantry, you must:
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Provide a valid, state-issued photo ID.
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Reside in Livingston County, Illinois.
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Visit only during posted pantry hours.
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The pantry operates as an equal opportunity provider. Assistance is available regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or background. While no proof of income is required, clients are asked to follow USDA and state food assistance guidelines, which help us serve as many households as possible in a fair and consistent way.
INFORMATION
What to Expect When You Visit
We want every person who walks through our doors to feel comfortable and cared for. Here’s what you can expect during a typical visit:
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Arrival and Check-In – When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by volunteers who will check your ID and confirm your household’s eligibility. If this is your first visit, our team will guide you through the simple registration process.

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Waiting Area – Depending on the number of households being served that day, you may wait in line for a short time. Many clients use this as a chance to meet others and share encouragement.

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Distribution – Food is provided in boxes or bags. The amount and type of food may vary each week depending on donations and resources, but every distribution is designed to provide meaningful support.

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Friendly Volunteers – Throughout the process, our volunteers are here to help. From carrying groceries to your car, to offering a listening ear or a prayer if desired, our goal is to treat every person with dignity and kindness.
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On average, we serve dozens of households each week. You are not alone—many in our community rely on supplemental food support at different times in their lives.
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DONATIONS
Food Donations and Support
The strength of our Food Pantry comes from the generosity of the community. Every can, box, or bag of food makes a difference, and every dollar donated allows us to purchase resources to stock our shelves.
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Here are some ways you can help:
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Bring Food Donations – Non-perishable items such as canned vegetables, peanut butter, pasta, rice, beans, and cereal are always needed.

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Host a Food Drive – Schools, businesses, and community groups are encouraged to organize food drives on behalf of the pantry.

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Give Financially – Every dollar goes directly to purchasing food or pantry supplies. Even small gifts add up to big impact.

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Spread the Word – Share about the pantry with neighbors and friends who may need help or want to give.
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When you donate, you are not just filling shelves—you are filling homes with relief and gratitude.
Help serve the community with food and resources.
COMMUNITY
Serving Our Community Together
The Food Pantry is one part of First Baptist Church’s larger mission to serve Pontiac and the surrounding area. Alongside Sunday worship, Bible studies, and fellowship groups, the pantry provides a tangible way to live out Christ’s command to love our neighbors.
Clients who visit the pantry are invited—not required—to connect with other ministries of the church. Some choose to attend worship services, join a group, or participate in community meals. Others simply come for food, and that is enough. Our commitment is to serve with no strings attached, showing Christ’s love through compassion and care.
We believe that feeding the body and nurturing the spirit go hand in hand. That’s why prayer is available to anyone who would like it, and why our volunteers serve with joy. Together, we are not just distributing food—we are building a community of hope.