DeLucas Watkins, 33, has worked construction, landscaping, and as a forklift operator. But epilepsy and neuropathy in his hands and feet put a stop to work and he can no longer drive a car.

DeLucas lived for a few years without water or electricity before moving into an apartment building off Troost Avenue.

“In my case, I didn’t have a refrigerator. Had to use dry ice. But once you can’t keep food cold you go to canned goods, then you’re at the bare minimum. It’s all bad from there.”

To keep perishable food from spoiling, he bought dry ice from one of the few grocery stores where it was for sale, but the buses eventually stopped running from Midtown to Independence.

It’s a seven-minute walk from DeLucas’ apartment to the Central Presbyterian Church’s weekly food pantry located at 3501 Campbell St. He has relied on the pantry for two years. He’s currently applying for disability, and he has needed to re-apply for SNAP benefits.

DeLucas spends two-days-a-week at the pantry: He volunteers on Mondays to prep and clean, tackling some of the “yucky jobs,” like cleaning behind the refrigerator. On Wednesdays, he picks up food for himself and helps senior neighbors like 80-something Miss Margaret (“the grandmother I never had”) get unwieldy grocery carts to the door of their homes.

“I like this pantry because it has a good system,” DeLucas said.

Neighbors are invited to wait inside when the weather is too cold or hot, and they can use free wifi as they wait. They are welcome to shop as if it were a full-service grocery store.

DeLucas chooses the items he needs and likes. In addition to meat, dairy, eggs, canned and frozen goods, he can pick up fresh produce grown in the church’s community garden, personal hygiene items, pet food, and up to three items from the clothes closet. He even accepts a couple of free pairs of brand new underwear that is being given away.

But DeLucas’ favorite part about the pantry is the sense of community it fosters.

“It’s the same people every time. That matters to me…We’re a little family, and that’s why I come on Mondays to volunteer, because they help me out so much I might as well come and help them out,” he said.

The Central Presbyterian Church food pantry got its start in 1970. The newest pantry director, Rachel Ternes, is continuing the tradition of welcoming all, because as the LGBTQIA+ affirming congregation states on its sign, all means all.

“She’s doing really well and bonding with everybody,” said DeLucas.

An average of 75 families visit the weekly pantry, which is open 52 weeks a year and relies on donations from Harvesters.

“I love Harvesters. I see them everywhere. It’s clear how much you do for the community,” DeLucas said, then nods toward the line. “It’s a full house every time. Today we’re already on number 89.”