I've only been to the Pantry (Community Cupboard) side of the Gleaners Facility. At this time I have been one one occasion, though I may visit again if the need arises. The line to get in was quite lengthy out side the doors, zig zagging between the parking lot and the sidewalk when I last visited. The time I got into line, until I physically went thru the doors and entered the facility was approximately two and a half hours. While in line other "clients" mentioned that this line was longer than usual. The staff was courteous, and a staff member circulated thru the line checking that the clients had required ID/mail and signed the clients in on clipboards to try and expedite. Another staff member also circulated thru the line distributing Ice Cold bottled water; which was refreshing in the heat.
Once thru the doors and in the "client distribution/service area" the Community Cupboard Pantry was very clean, neatly and adequately stocked and staffed. The staff was very courteous and helpful. There were several stations/tables that you circulated thru in the inner line to receive the supplies/commodities that they were distributing. I received various canned items, some dry foods including bags beans and bags of rice. They also provided me with some dairy items and refrigerated meat/protein items, as well as some breads/bakery items. They also provided a couple of deli-style sandwiches that were apparently donated by major retailers that were close to the printed "best-by dates" and were still quite fresh and tasty and to me was quite the "treat". It took me between 10-15 minutes inside going from "station" to station receiving the foods that they were distributing. Over all I felt quite blessed to receive a variety of good high quality food supplies in a neat, clean, modern and well maintained facility, staffed by courteous, caring individuals in my time of need. Thank you "Community Cupboard" and thank You, Gleaners.
Gleaners provides food and grocery products to over 400 charities in 20 counties and does distribution for the State of Indiana/USDA's TEFAP and CSFP programs. Low overhead and good logistics make this a way for charities to feed more hungry people. Handling fees to charities are never higher than 14 cents per pound for donated food. Average last year was 4 cents on nearly 16 million pounds of products.