Ark Valley News - Roving Pantry spreading

Jack Hamilton loads grocery orders after purchasing them at Dillons in Wichita Jan. 22. The Roving Pantry program is expanding to include Bel Aire.

Roving Pantry spreading
By Chris Strunk
Last Updated: February 05, 2015

Grocery delivery service expanding into Bel Aire

A home food delivery service expanding into northeast Sedgwick County is looking for new "customers."

Organizers of the free Roving Pantry program, which is offered through Senior Services of Wichita, are seeking homebound Bel Aire residents age 60 and older who could benefit from the service.

"We know the need is out there," said Opal Smith, program coordinator. "In the past, we really haven't had the funds to expand. Now, we can see that we can do it to the close surrounding communities."

Smith said the program is currently targeting Bel Aire because one of its two Thursday delivery routes reaches the 3400 block of North Woodlawn.

Customers pay for the food and other items they order, but there is no charge for delivery.

"I can understand some of the frustration that people have when they get older and they have been used to doing stuff on their own," said Jack Hamilton, who delivers for Roving Pantry. "… We try and make it as pleasant and friendly as possible."

Smith said the process to get started is quick and easy.

Anyone interested in the program is asked to call Smith at Senior Services (267-4378) and go through a short interview to determine eligibility.

"If you're 60 or older and can't get out and do your own shopping, you qualify," Smith said. "It's that simple. The program is not based on income. It's based solely on need."

Participants then place grocery orders a couple of days in advance of their delivery day. All items are purchased at Dillons the day of delivery. Participants pay for the items when they are delivered.

"I couldn't live by myself without it," said Wichitan Lola Squires, who has been using the Roving Pantry for about two years. "I don't have anybody to go buy groceries. … They get stamps and just anything Dillons sells. I really appreciate it."

Hamilton said program workers try hard to get exactly what participants order each time.

"I was homebound and I had to rely on other folks to do for me," he said. "I kind of understand both sides of this. I know it can be really difficult having somebody shop for you. … If they give us a try, we'll do everything we can for them to make it work."

Smith said participants are welcome to use the program for as long as they need to or even intermittently.