To the editor:
What goes on at a food pantry? How does it work? I think that most people who have not experienced a pantry, either as a client, volunteer, or staff member, picture it as a straightforward operation. Food comes in; food goes out. Well, that is true as far as it goes, but, like so many things, it is a lot more complicated than it looks at first glance.
At The People’s Pantry, proteins, produce, and dry goods arrive from many sources, at least 12 times each week. Volunteers pick up other foods from as far away as the Food Bank of Western Mass in Chicopee. Teams of volunteers—40 to 50 each week—meet these deliveries and sort, store, and later distribute this food to shoppers.
Arranging a schedule of deliveries, organizing crews of volunteers, storing food appropriately, and generally maintaining order while serving our shoppers in a warm and respectful manner requires constant attention.
Fortunately, thanks to the support we receive from so many in our community, the Pantry has been able to keep pace with the need, but it is getting harder to do as the need grows and the cost of food increases. That is why we are holding our first-ever summer virtual food drive.
Our Virtual Food Drive provides an easy way for you to support The People’s Pantry. Just scan the QR code on the right to donate and let us do the shopping. Donate before August 31 to help us reach our goal of $25,000 for our 25th anniversary.
Please consider making a special gift to the Panty this summer so that we can continue to provide our shoppers with the high-nutrient food they cannot afford to purchase.
You scan, we shop, and the whole community benefits. Thank you.
Beth Moser
President of The People’s Pantry
Great Barrington
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