Pantry meeting increased needs

by Mary Le Arneal
Published 8/3/22

The Blessings Food Pantry sponsored by local churches and hosted at the United Presbyterian Church has seen a 52% increase in visitors since last summer.

“We served 84 individuals last week,” pantry chairman Ann Halladay said. “Last summer we usually served 40.”

This does not mean that 84 people came to the pantry. The pantry does not ask for income, but does ask how many people the person presenting is providing food for.

“We are seeing people needing to supplement their food items,” Halladay said. “Maybe they don’t need everything, but an items or two to help make a meal.”

People are limited to three meats per week, which Halladay noted is not much for a larger family. Meat, eggs and milk are always needed.
Garden produce is always welcomed and appreciated. Other specific needs are for butter, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pork ’n beans, jelly, mixture of pasta sauce, mixture of pastas, brown sugar, cooking oil, peanut butter, butter, canned chicken, canned tuna, cake mix, frosting, pancake mix, syrups and Hamburger Helper. Donations can be left at the community churches or the library.

“We will accept whatever anyone wants to donate,” Halladay said.
Some people use the pantry for short term needs, and end up giving back when they are able to. Others have a long term need and are regular visitors. The Blessings Pantry is for those living in the North Bend Central school district.

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