Ennis Container Pantry (Catholic Charities Dallas)

Who Can Visit?

The Ennis Container Pantry is open to families and individuals in Ennis and the surrounding area who need food support. Visitors are registered at the pantry, so you'll go through a quick sign-in when you arrive.

How to Pick Up

This is a client choice pantry, which means you get to walk inside the converted shipping container and pick the groceries that fit your needs and preferences, just like shopping at a traditional store. Volunteers are there to greet you and help you choose items for your cart.

Good to Know

The pantry is run out of a converted shipping container located in the parking lot across from St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church at 401 E Lampasas St, Ennis, TX 75119. Don't let the size fool you though — it's a full client choice experience where you can browse and select what works best for your family.

Ways to Give

You can drop off groceries directly at the pantry location. One visitor noted, "I had a drop off of groceries for the pantry," so donations of food are welcome.

How to Join the Team?

Volunteers are needed to help run the Ennis Container Pantry. You can sign up for a shift online through the Catholic Charities Dallas volunteer portal. To get started, click "Respond," complete the required safety forms, and then sign up for a shift by clicking "Respond" again and choosing "Submit Opportunity Response." You'll receive a confirmation email after signing up, so check your spam or junk folder if you don't see it right away.

Volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Volunteers between 14 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times and must submit a Minor Volunteer Waiver before their shift. Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip flops) and comfortable, casual clothes suited to the season. The pantry also recommends bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, work gloves, and a hat since the work is outdoors.

Volunteer duties include greeting clients, helping them choose items, restocking shelves, registering clients, and scheduling appointments. Volunteers should be able to lift medium-sized boxes between 16 and 20 pounds and stand for several hours at a time.