Clarksville grocer gives away meals to fight hunger, homelessness
A southern Indiana grocer is feeding people in his community for free.
A southern Indiana grocer is feeding people in his community for free.
A southern Indiana grocer is feeding people in his community for free.
A southern Indiana grocer saw a need in his community and has decided to help out in his own way.
Inder Kumar, owner of Spiceland Indian Grocery in Clarksville, said he started offering traditional Indian dishes to anyone who cannot afford to pay.
“Yesterday, we had over 26 people, and even today, 30 people so far,” Kumar said. “They lost their jobs because of the economy going on right now, they don’t have food, and they're all just asking for help."
The store is serving dishes including butter chicken, goat curry and chicken tikka masala, all cooked and refrigerated.
Kumar said he will keep feeding people until they get back on their feet — for as long as it takes.
“I will feed them until they find a better job or they can stand on their feet, they have a home, a place to stay,” Kumar said.
He said some customers have also made cash donations, which he plans to give directly to people who need help with bills.
“Whoever needs help with their electric bill, water bill — it will help them out,” Kumar said.
Customers said they appreciate the effort.
“I grew up in Clarksville. It was nice seeing just an outreach of community and kind of a dark time, you know, as the prevailing winds blow,” Andrew Engle said.
“We came in, and it’s there’s everything that I would ever need to. And I don’t have to drive. It’s hard. It’s great, and I absolutely love they’re looking out for community,” Quest Miller said.
Kumar said the best way to help is to pay it forward.
“What I’m doing. You do the same thing for others,” Kumar said.
Kumar said he plans to host an Indian food festival in the fall.
