LaVonne Bartlett steps in as new director for FISH Food Pantry

(L-R): FISH board member Elaine Chase stands alongside new FISH Food Pantry director LaVonne Bartlett (WCDQ Photo/Kurtis Broadstreet).

LaVonne Bartlett has begun her position as the new director for FISH Food Pantry in Montgomery County. A Logansport native, she has volunteered with FISH for almost 4 years after retiring as a nurse. She first arrived to Montgomery County in 1983.

“I got involved with FISH because I was looking for a non-profit to be involved with in order to give back to the community,” Bartlett said. “I’ve got a great group of volunteers, and things have gone well over the past three weeks.”

Alongside a new director also came new changes, such as a program for seniors to receive extra protein; fresh fruits and vegetables; as well as organizational tactics for volunteers.

“On average, we have about 600 families and 1700 individuals who come in per month,” Bartlett explained. “Food and monetary donations are currently meeting demand.”

“We get most of our food from Food Finders in Lafayette, and also five or six different businesses in town who donate to us every week”, said Elaine Chase, a board member for FISH in Montgomery County. “Monetary donations help make purchasing food possible.”

WCDQ had the chance to talk with Bartlett and Chase at the pantry, which is located behind St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Crawfordsville. The interview can be heard below.

The FISH Food Pantry is always seeking volunteers to help keep operations running smoothly. Those interested can reach out by calling 765-362-3474. Drop-ins are also welcome.

Monetary donations can be mailed to FISH, P.O. Box 261, Crawfordsville, IN, 47933.

To learn more about FISH in Montgomery County, click or tap here.