Today's top stories: East St. Louis’ Salvation Army food pantry shutters after repeated break-ins; St. Louis sees population dip following May tornado; wastewater upgrades aim to improve area rivers; Missouri Capitol sees protests over redistricting. Plus, community events, local sports highlights, and more updates from across the metro.

MAIN STORY

Salvation Army Food Pantry Shuts After Break-Ins

The Salvation Army of St. Clair County has temporarily closed its East St. Louis food pantry after 13 break-ins over several months, the organization confirmed this week. The pantry served dozens of families weekly.

The nonprofit’s Metro East facility now has 15 boarded-up windows, broken doors, and extensive damage after thieves stole items ranging from HVAC systems to hygiene products. Staff reported one incident in July where food was smeared on the walls and left to rot, forcing the difficult decision to close. Families in need must now travel to a Belleville pantry, which presents challenges for some residents.

There is no reopening date yet for the East St. Louis site. The Salvation Army plans to rebuild, and leadership has stressed a commitment to providing both material and community support. Read more details about the break-ins and impact here.

AROUND TOWN

Protesters rallied in the Missouri Capitol on Wednesday to oppose new redistricting laws pushed by state GOP legislators. Activists argue the proposed congressional maps would cement Republican gains—projecting double-digit victories in seven of eight districts if the rules had been in place in 2020. At the same time, the Missouri Senate (controlled by Republicans) aims to finalize the plans by Friday amid ongoing public outcry. Opponents may seek a statewide referendum as the next step.

The Mack Bar & Grill will host a Bolyard’s at the Mack pop-up event this month. Chef Chris Bolyard and his team will take over the Lindenwood Park neighborhood bar on September 10, offering a special menu blending Bolyard’s acclaimed meat expertise with classic pub fare. The event starts at 5 p.m. and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees can expect creative takes on burgers and sandwiches at the Mack Bar & Grill.

Hundreds joined the 100 Black Men of Metropolitan St. Louis for its 20th Annual Community Health Day on Saturday, emphasizing the importance of holistic wellness. Runners and walkers gathered outside IKEA for 1-mile and 5K events before accessing free health screenings, mental health support, and wellness resources. Event leaders like Tiffany Lacy-Clark and Dr. Arnold Bullock highlighted the importance of early cancer detection and regular checkups, particularly for African American men. Organizer Jesse C. Swanigan, 92, urged ongoing vigilance. Learn more about available programs here.

ALSO READ

St. Louis Faces Post-Tornado Population Decline

Demographic experts estimate about 3,500 residents left St. Louis after the May 16 tornado, warning that more could follow without intervention from city and state leaders. This projection comes as neighborhoods transition into a prolonged “aftershock” phase that may further impact population stability.

Business owners, such as those along Delmar Boulevard, report tangible declines in customers due to housing displacement, while local organizations work to maintain neighborhood vibrancy amid uncertainty. Community leaders urge residents to seek financial assistance and participate in revitalization efforts. Read more about the ongoing challenges facing St. Louis here.

ALSO READ

St. Louis River Cleanup Costs Billions

The St. Louis area is spending billions of dollars to upgrade wastewater infrastructure and reduce sewage overflows into local rivers. Work is underway at sites like Black Creek in Ladue as of June 2025.

Although the project will eliminate many bypasses that send untreated sewage into waterways during storms, the region will still discharge some sewage during heavy rainfall. Sewer officials say the upgrades are required by federal order, but concerns persist about the long-term impact on water quality. Find more project details and implications in this river cleanup report.

QUICK HITS

Collegiate School of Medicine senior Evan Moll won the Forest Park Festival cross country race on September 13, 2025, in St. Louis, capturing the trophy amid a competitive field.

St. Louis City SC secured its first road win since March 9 by defeating Montreal 2-0, courtesy of goals from Wallem and Hartel, as well as a shutout performance from goalkeeper Roman Burki.

Mission Continues brought dozens of volunteers to American Legion Post 444 in Florissant on Saturday to serve veterans and honor 9/11 victims with maintenance and beautification projects.

Clementine’s Ice Cream received Vaad kosher certification for most of its flavors, toppings, and baked goods, expanding options for St. Louis’ kosher community and local events, according to founder Tamara Keefe.

St. Louis Cardinals face mounting losses as fielding errors and mental mistakes continue to undermine the team's performance in the 2025 MLB season.