1 in 8 Ohioans are food insecure. Together, we can end hunger. Our volunteers could turn a blind eye to poverty in Central, Ohio. Instead, they work hard to connect food and other resources to families in need.
According to Feeding America, the average cost of a home-cooked meal in Franklin County, Ohio, is projected to be $4.20 in 2025. Based on that estimate, providing 15 meals per person would cost $63.00. However, thanks to NSI’s resources and partnerships, we can provide those same 15 meals for just $10.18. In 2024, NSI distributed an incredible 1,174,831 meals to 24,423 families—serving a total of 82,306 individuals.
Neighborhood Services, Inc Food Pantry responds to the ill effects of poverty in Central Ohio by providing food and material assistance to persons in need. NSI strives to improve the quality of life in our community by compassionately and respectfully serving our neighbors
NSI was founded in 1965 by 12 University District churches, in response to growing need for food in and increased homelessness in the community. The pantry’s convenient, central location, located on the #4 bus line, allows NSI to impact people in need from all over the city of Columbus.
Operating on the simple belief that all people deserve to eat, NSI Food Pantry now serves neighbors living in the following zip codes: 43201, 43202, 43210, 43211, 43212, 43219, 43220, 43221, 43224, and 43229.
Food insecurity affects families across Central Ohio, and no community is untouched by hunger. By focusing our service area, NSI is able to provide consistent, reliable access to nutritious food for thousands of households each year.
This impact is made possible by the generosity of our supporters—volunteers, donors, faith partners, activists, and local businesses. Together, we are ensuring that families facing difficult times have the resources they need and the dignity they deserve.
To learn more about food insecurity and food costs in Ohio, check out Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study here.
