Neighbors Serving Neighbors Since 1981
We are committed to providing access to our services to anyone residing in Batavia and/or Batavia Township.
Mission Statement
The Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet comprise a not-for-profit organization sponsored by various Batavia churches and the broader community. Its purpose is to provide food, non-food household and personal items, and clothing for those individuals and families residing in Batavia and Batavia Township who are in need.
The Pantry’s not-for-profit operations fall under the “Federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act” of 1996, which clarifies that clients accept all donations with a clear understanding that they will hold harmless the Pantry, its directors, staff, volunteers, and suppliers.
The BIFP Bylaws, updated June 2024, are available here.
The BIFP Form 990 and the Independent Accountant’s Report are available upon request.
OUR STAFF
Our dedicated staff works together every day to ensure that every neighbor who comes through our door is welcomed and treated with dignity, compassion, and care.
OUR BOARD
Our Board of Directors provides guidance, leadership, and vision to ensure the Pantry and Clothes Closet continue to serve our community with compassion and integrity.
CONTACT US
We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have questions, would like to donate, or are looking for ways to get involved, please reach out through our Contact Page.
History
The Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry came into being as a result of the economic recession in 1981. Batavia churches were receiving many requests for food by residents who were unemployed and unable to provide for their families. In response to those needs, on November 26, 1981, the Ministerial Association called together a special meeting of representatives and pastors to discuss ways to establish a central operation where people could come to receive food assistance.
After many initial homes, the Pantry moved to its current location, an unused storage building, donated by the City of Batavia. Generous local business people, craftsmen and citizens with expertise, renovated this storage unit into an efficient and functional space. As the pantry continued to grow, the need for a pantry vehicle became apparent. With the support of the Batavia Lions and the community spirit, a van was purchased. The van carries groceries from local stores, schools, and businesses during food drives and normal shopping trips. It is also used to deliver food to shut-ins who need assistance.
Because of increasing number of clients and the consequential need to store more food, it became apparent that the building itself was becoming too small. In the fall of 2007, with local financial contributions and donated services and materials, the current addition was completed.
In order to service our clients in a more efficient manner, our Food Pantry adopted the philosophy of Client Choice in October 2007. Client Choice provides the clients more independent and personal choices in selecting their own food versus our old method of bagging groceries based on what food guidelines say each client should get.
Today, with the help of volunteers, our clients can select food items that they want and can use. Currently the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry serves over 350 families every month.