For many Indianapolis families, the long stretch of winter break brings more than schedule changes. It can also mean losing access to school-based meals, hygiene supplies and other daily essentials children rely on during the academic year.
Community organizations across Marion County say the need for food, diapers and pantry support spikes between mid-December and early January, especially for households managing rising utilities or missed workdays.
Winter break support varies by neighborhood, but several organizations operate consistent distribution programs designed to bridge the gap. This guide outlines where parents and caregivers can find food, diapers, formula, hygiene products and other resources throughout the season.
Food assistance
One of the most widely used food resources is Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, which continues its community distributions during the holidays. Families can locate the nearest pantry or drive-through distribution on the Gleaners map at gleaners.org/find-food. Many sites operate on adjusted schedules around holidays, so parents are encouraged to check the times before arriving.
For families who rely on school meals, Indy Parks also maintains select winter break meal programs at community centers around the city. These meals are available at no cost for children under 18. Updated locations and serving times are posted at indy.gov/activity/meal-services. Some centers offer breakfast and lunch on weekdays, providing reliable access for families whose budgets tighten during school closures.
Diapers and other essentials
Diaper need is another major challenge during winter break, with many families reporting difficulty purchasing diapers when faced with holiday expenses or rising heating costs. The Indiana Diaper Bank operates multiple monthly pickups and emergency distributions across Marion County. Parents can view the distribution calendar and register for support at indianadiaperbank.org/get-diapers. Supplies typically include diapers, wipes and limited hygiene items for infants and toddlers.
Community centers and churches also expand essential-goods assistance during December. Franciscan Health’s Promoting Healthy Families program operates a baby supply pantry that includes formula, diapers, blankets and car-seat safety checks. Details are available at franciscanhealth.org/healthcare-facilities/franciscan-health-indianapolis. While hours may vary, staff encourage families to call ahead if they need urgent support.
Adult hygiene and other services
In addition to baby needs, some pantries offer adult hygiene products often excluded from traditional food assistance programs. Midwest Food Bank’s Indiana division works with partner agencies across the region, and families can locate participating distribution sites at midwestfoodbank.org/locations/indiana. Items may include toothpaste, soap, feminine hygiene products and basic cleaning supplies.
Families seeking a more comprehensive support system during winter break may benefit from the programs offered by Shepherd Community Center. The center provides food boxes, hygiene kits and connections to additional wraparound services. Staff also assist families with identifying long-term food and utility assistance programs, including SNAP applications and energy relief options. More details are available at shepherdcommunity.org.
Parents who need immediate help outside pantry hours can call Indiana 211, which operates 24 hours a day. Specialists help locate nearby emergency food sites, diaper banks, warming centers and holiday meal events. The online directory is available at in211.communityos.org.
For many families, winter break presents both opportunities and challenges. Community organizations emphasize that no one should hesitate to seek help, especially when school closures widen gaps in food security and household supplies. These programs operate specifically to support families throughout the holiday season.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
