December 7, 2022

Was just about to leave the pantry early this afternoon, when Lois and her sister Liz, arrived with a load of yummy Carolina Crunch Lettuce donated by Bright Farms in Etowah . We were busy unpacking the boxes and placing the lettuce into the fridge when there was the sound of clickity-clack of one of our buggies being pushed to a vehicle. Venturing out to offer a hand, I met a pleasant lady named Jennifer, who had a donation of items many of which were mentioned in our newsletter or website. The point is…that many of you drop off items during the week to the pantry foyer and we regret that we aren't there all the time to assist you with your donation and show you appreciation by thanking you in person. Items donated are a valuable resource to us as our number of families have increased significantly since March when we averaged 70+ families a week to over 100+ families with a record high of 177 on November 19. This past Saturday, we welcomed 112 households, representing 391 individuals, and nine new families.

Bethany Methodist Church of Fairview presented us with toys, games, puzzles, bed linens, warm weather wear, including Christmas wrapping paper, and ribbon for our neighbors. For the past several weeks, these donations have been part of their outreach program for the community. We are so grateful for the assistance they have provided to our newest neighbors.

Several students and their teacher from T.C. Roberson High School spent Saturday morning, helping with neighbor shopping and carry out to the cars. Many thanks for coming in early and helping throughout the morning.

This week Ingles of Fletcher provided 36 bags of food. City Bakery donated bread. Other donated items were from Bimbos, Wal-Mart, Bright Farms, Flavor-First, and MilCo. Friday, our volunteers stocked the shelves with purchased items from MANNA, Sav-Mor, and Ingles. Shopping locally we purchased items from MANNA, JMJ Tomato Co ( onions, squash, zucchini), Sav-Mor (canned goods, milk, and eggs).

On behalf of the executive committee, thank you to our volunteers and our area churches, civic groups, local merchants, and families for all you do to feed our community helping to reduce food insecurity.

Kathy Noyes