Over the past two decades, the Kountze Food Pantry has grown into a guest-choice pantry operated by more than 70 volunteers. This model demonstrates respect for guests and decreases waste by allowing individuals to choose the food they receive. In 2022, the pantry had over 17,000 visits serving over 48,000 individuals. Of those served, 34% are children. The Pantry’s mission is simple: feed anyone who comes through the door. Staff and volunteers refer guests to primary care and behavioral health services within Kountze Commons when appropriate.

The partnership with the Methodist Community Health Clinic expands the healing capacity of Kountze Commons, providing specialized and low-cost primary care including: 
❖    physical exams and treatment of minor illnesses;
❖    management of diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic illnesses;
❖    health education;

❖    occupational therapy;
❖    reproductive health and pregnancy testing;
❖    flu shots and adult immunizations;
❖    specialized follow-up care for sexual assault survivors; and
❖    free and anonymous STD and HIV testing, treatment and risk counseling.

The Del and Lou Ann Weber Healing Gift Free Clinic began its work in 2010 in a community effort to heal the sick. Today it remains a volunteer-driven, free health clinic with a fully licensed free pharmacy serving those in need of medical care. An average of 25 professional volunteers from the health care industry serve each week in the Clinic and refer patients with food insecurity or behavioral health needs to partners within Kountze Commons. The Clinic serves approximately 30 to 50 patients each week.

Lutheran Family Services has several licensed behavioral health therapists officed in the lower level of Kountze Commons. These specialists provide individual and family therapy, trauma care, and therapists who specialize in 24/7 crisis response and post-crisis services. If a client in behavioral health services is exhibiting food insecurity or is in need of primary care, therapists will refer the client to the Kountze Food Pantry, the Del and Lou Ann Weber Healing Gift Free Clinic, or the Methodist Community Health Clinic for services.