In Lawrence County, Indiana, people are finding ways to get food, pay bills, and keep a roof over their heads. This is happening because federal and state help—like SNAP (food stamps) and WIC—is being cut or delayed due to the 2025 government shutdown and budget changes.
Many think only people who don’t need aid will be affected. That’s not true. These cuts hurt working families, children, and seniors too.
The Real Numbers
- About 11% of people in Lawrence County don’t have enough food.
- For kids, it’s 18% across Indiana.
- The poverty rate is 11.3%—that’s nearly 5,000 people.
- Over 3,600 people used food stamps last year. Now, federal cuts—like the USDA reducing aid—are making things harder .
Where People Are Getting Help Now
Food Help
- Hoosier Hills Food Bank Runs mobile food giveaways in Bedford and Mitchell. Serves over 1,000 families a month. 📞 (812) 675-0874
- Mitchell Church of Christ Food Pantry Gives food to people in the southern part of the county.
- L.I.F.E. (Lawrence InterFaith Endeavor) Helps with emergency food, rent, and utilities. Supported by over 40 churches. 💻 lifeindiana.org
- Bertha’s Mission Delivers meals to homebound people and serves free community meals in Bedford.
- Blessings Boxes Small outdoor pantries where anyone can take or leave food. Found around the county.
Shelter and Housing
- Becky’s Place Shelter for women and children in Bedford. Helps about 82 families a year. 📞 (812) 275-5773
- Bedford Men’s Warming Shelter Open during cold weather and year-round for homeless men.
- Catalyst Rescue Mission Short-term housing and support for individuals and families.
Other Help
- Lawrence County Positive Impact Pays for prescriptions, home repairs, and emergencies.
- Community Resource Guide Lists free meals, utility help, and more.
Can Local Groups Keep Up?
No. They are already stretched thin.
- Food pantries in southern Indiana report record demand and running out of food.
- Hoosier Hills Food Bank says more people are coming, but donations are not keeping up.
- The government shutdown is hurting WIC and SNAP—forcing more families to local sites.
- Some pantries have long lines and limited supplies.
- Shelters are full. Some people are turned away.
- County budget is short $1.8 million—meaning less money for public services.
Bottom line: Local food banks, churches, and shelters are doing great work. But they cannot replace full government aid. They depend on donations and volunteers. If more help is cut, many will go without.
What You Can Do
- Donate food or money to Hoosier Hills or L.I.F.E.
- Volunteer at a pantry or shelter
- Call your leaders—ask for stronger safety net programs
- Share this guide with someone in need
In Lawrence County, neighbors help neighbors. But we all need to make sure the help is there when it’s needed most.
Need help now? Start here: 📞 L.I.F.E. Hotline – lifeindiana.org 📄 Full Resource Guide (PDF)
