Indianapolis launched a new tool to help connect people with food assistance. It's called Community Compass.

The app helps people find local food pantries, meal sites, SNAP assistance and other affordable healthy food options.

The Office of Public Health and Safety led the development through a city, state, nonprofit and private partnership.

Managing Director of the Indy Hunger Network Kate Howe says they incorporated community feedback.

"They liked the idea about having all the information they needed about location, hours, eligibility without having to call and wait on the phone," says Howe.

The project involves numerous public and private partners.

Nonprofit Circles Indy gave input on what would be most helpful in a food assistance app. Marie Wiese, with the nonprofit, says she appreciates that.



"They were just trying to hone in on what exactly this would look like and so they welcomed the voice of the community from the beginning," says Wiese.

Food insecurity impacts one in five people in Marion County.

It is available for download and has a text feature to get information.