Southside Homes for Rent

Southside is Muncie’s largest neighborhood. The area was once a center of manufacturing activity, including the Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company and the Muncie Chevrolet plant. But nearby factories closed and caused many jobs — and residents — to leave the area. Still, local organizations, Ball State University and an active neighborhood association have had a positive impact on the community. Southside Middle School is the beating heart of the neighborhood and serves as a hub for education and resources. Grissom Elementary School and Southside Middle School are within the neighborhood, and each receives a C-minus grade from Niche. The middle school is home to Panther Pantry, which provides food, clothing and other essential items to students in need. Participating students are sent home with enough food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as extra items for their families. “It started in 2015 with a backpack program with four kids in one classroom,” says Deb Huston, pantry coordinator and special education aide. “Now we have three rooms, including The Den, where kids can pick out clothes. We never dreamed how much the pantry was needed and how long it would last.”