What color is generosity? At the FISH Food Pantry, generosity is red — red tickets dropped in a clear glass fishbowl and red coupons ready to share with neighbors. Pizza, anyone?
Recently, the owners of Brothers Pizza proposed a creative and unique idea to FISH of Montgomery County. How could they bring a little unexpected joy to people who are struggling? What if they donated about 20 complete pizza dinners to FISH every month? Could FISH figure out an equitable way to share those dinners with neighbors at the Food Pantry?
John, Jack, Luke and Michael Lowe were raised to count their blessings. Their mother homeschooled her six children and emphasized the virtues of generosity, gratitude and compassion. Family Christmas caroling at nursing homes revealed that a surprise visit or treat can bring unexpected joy to others.
Mrs. Lowe sometimes relied on food pantries for help. Occasional pizza dinners were a huge treat. When there are six children and a tight budget, pizza can be stretched to feed a lot of mouths.
The Lowe brothers clearly understand the need for help when resources just won’t stretch any further. They know the joy of an unexpected treat, and their family experiences are the basis of the red coupon idea.
In 2001 Luke, John, Michael and Jack opened Johnny Provalone’s, their first pizza business. They had a deep commitment to living their values and to paying forward their blessings. A shelf was stocked with canned goods to share with those in need, and the Lowes’ first venture into philanthropy began.
The year 2015 brought a move to the corner of Market and Green streets. Brothers Pizza became part of the Crawfordsville restaurant community. When COVID closed the dining room, Brothers Pizza increased its takeout and delivery services. Then in October of 2026, federal SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits for the needy were suddenly canceled. Reliance on food pantries increased by nearly 50%. John, Michael, Jack and Luke brainstormed ideas to help. FISH Food Pantry was already on their radar, and the red coupon pizza dinner project was born.
Here’s how it works at FISH. Each neighbor bringing a box or bag to package their food choices signs a red ticket and drops in the fishbowl. At month’s end, 20 tickets are drawn and the red pizza coupons are distributed. It’s a party every time! Thanks to the creative generosity of the Lowes, every neighbor has a chance to enjoy the large pizza of choice, breadsticks, a two-liter bottle of pop — and a night off from cooking. That is a recipe for joy!
These generous, compassionate men have created a warm atmosphere that makes their regular customers feel like part of the family. They respect each customer and are particularly sensitive in honoring the dignity of the FISH coupon holders. This creative and continuing commitment to others improves lives, one pizza at a time.
How can your business create similar small joys for others? Who will be the first to offer complimentary oil changes or to make small home repairs? Who will give coupons for a couple of free loads at the laundromat or some passes to see a movie at AMC? How about gift cards for items no longer covered by SNAP? Everyone would enjoy treats at Dairy Castle or Culver’s. Crawfordsville Area Transportation bus passes are so useful. A free haircut could lift somebody’s spirits. New shoes or underwear are hard to come by when you are pinching pennies. Beall’s or Walmart gift cards will help.
A small monetary investment in joy can relieve someone’s stress and leave both the giver and the recipient feeling happy. Everyone benefits when that happens! Please leave a message at 765 -362-FISH with your ideas.
Monetary donations are always welcome at FISH, P.O. Box 261, Crawfordsville, IN 47933. The Food Pantry needs non-perishable food donations. Bag clean, gently used clothing and drop it into the blue Donation Box behind the Presbyterian Church. Leave household linens at the First Baptist Church, 1905 Lebanon Road, Crawfordsville, IN 47933. FISH is very grateful for your generosity. Thanks so much.
Elaine Chase is co-president of FISH. She contributes a monthly column to the Journal Review.
