April 16, 2025

On Saturday, we were so fortunate to host the UNC ESHELMAN SCHOOL OF PHARMACY interns from UNCA for glucose and blood pressure screening. Our neighbors and volunteers were offered this opportunity at no charge. This week, NC MedAssist, the only statewide, non-profit free pharmacy in North Carolina offered over-the-counter medications to our neighbors at no cost. Tylenol and Tums were a couple of items that were offered. Lois collected Easter items for distribution on Saturday. The children were overjoyed selecting stuffed bunnies and chicks and Easter baskets filled with plastic eggs to take home. 

 We welcomed 106 families representing 377 individuals and six new families. The six new families represent a total of 19 family members.  We continue to need volunteers who can help with Spanish registrations. Once a month would be very helpful!

 Volunteer Spotlight this week: The following volunteers pick up food items for the pantry once a month at MILKCO: Fred Yopps, George & Connie Watson, Suzanne Kirby and Tamara Terrell. Bill Hoffard, Lucy Hall, Thad Pharr, and Andy Davis pick up the Sav-Mor milk. Sav-Mor food is picked up by Jack Grant, Diana Walgreen, Steve Rerych, and Sue Ackman. Jeff Faistenhammer drives to City Bakery and Bimbos to pick up the bread every week and Thad Pharr drives to Bright Farms in Etowah to pick up the salad. Lois gets tomatoes every week from Flavor First in Mills River. Lauren drives to Wal-Mart every week to pick up the items that have been returned and once a month she receives items from Project Dignity. Rob Webster and Jo Miller receive cat and dog food from the Humane Society. Let us know if you're interested in helping once a month.

On behalf of our Pantry Board, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous food and monetary donations to our pantry. Your donations will make a significant impact on the lives of those in our community who are struggling with food insecurity.

- Kathy Noyes, for the Executive Committee