How to help your neighbors in need

Many people across Southwest Louisiana occasionally find themselves in need of assistance with food, healthcare or utilites. Thankfully, there are many wonderful churches, agencies, and non-profits who are working to fill the gap. If you are able, please consider donating food, time, talent or money to help the hungry and homeless in our community. To add information about a local food pantry, please email mwilson@kplctv.com.

MANNA MINISTRIES - at St. Luke Simpson United Methodist Church 1500 Country Club Road in lake Charles (337) 802-1166.

Open Wednesday mornings from 9am -11am.

To qualify for food, a person must present an ID and Social Security Card and be interviewed by a Manna team Member. Also can help with electric, gas or water bills up to $150 one time per year.

CARE HELP OF SULPHUR - 200 N. Huntington Street in Sulphur (337) 528-2273

Accepting perishable and non-perishable food, paper goods and cleaning items for pantry

Care Help Thrift Store accepts donations of clothing, shoes, furniture, household items, books, etc.

Volunteers needed in store, pantry, and to pick up donations.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES - 1225 2nd St, Lake Charles (337) 439-7436

Accepting non-perishable foods for pantry

Volunteer opportunities available, please e-mail rickard.newman@lcdiocese.org

CALCASIEU COMMUNITY CLINIC - Not for profit free healthcare clinic for low income, working uninsured in the 5 parish area. Clinics help on Thursday afternoons from 4-9pm at Hardtner Hall College of Nursing on the McNeese campus.

ABRAHAM’S TENT - 2424 Fruge St, Lake Charles (337) 721-7211

Accepting food donations for kitchen - serves free lunches daily. Closed after lunchtime.

Volunteers needed to help prepare daily meals

SALVATION ARMY - 3020 Legion St, Lake Charles (337) 721-8068

Monetary donations needed for food pantry, utility and prescription assistance, and to help rebuild men’s shelter.

WATER’S EDGE FOOD PANTRY AND HOMELESS MINISTRY - 2760 Power Center Pkwy, Lake Charles (337) 476-7470

Non-perishable foods, paper goods and cleaning supplies needed for pantry.

Monetary donations and volunteers to assist homeless