River Pantry Food Madison served over 1,000 households more than last year
Helen Osborn Senatus, program manager, stated that this is an 80 percent increase in households that have never been assisted by river pantry the food pantry.
She said, “That’s just one of the many things that speaks to the growing need for food pantries” and her growing concern about food security.
The COVID-19 pandemic not only has craigslist toledo affected the number of families who need food assistance, but it has also forced food pantries into creative ways to deliver the river pantry food they provide without risking the spread.
Osborn-Senatus stated that River Pantry Food
Osborn-Senatus stated that Pantry Food was the first to relocate all its services curbside. Prior to this, shoppers had access to the facility to pick up items for their own use. The pantry started loading pre-selected food for shoppers into their vehicles, despite concerns about the virus spreading.
The Food launched FAM
The River Pantry Food launched FAM (Family At-Home Meals) within the past month to provide ready-to-eat food to those in need. Chris Tuttle, a pantry chef, stated that it took several months to set up the service purple clouds due to limited staffing and other restrictions.
FAM served 4,538 meals between June 16 and July 18. Becca Carpenter, communications manager at The River Pantry Food, stated that 972 people were served during the first week. This is comparable to the number served at The Pantry Food onsite community meal program which was cancelled due to COVID-19.
Osborn-Senatus stated that any donations made to FAM by September 1st will be matched up until $25,000 There are many opportunities to volunteer, especially for those in need.
Tuttle stated that there is not much difference between cooking meals in a restaurant and making meals at home. However, there are less options for the dishes that are prepared. However, the main focus remains on healthy meals.
Tuttle stated that “so far, we have been able to produce consistently good meals with healthy ingredients.” We try to include vegetables and salads in every meal to ensure that the community gets enough nutrition.
He misses the chance to visit and see regulars. He is hopeful there will be more of that in the future and looks forward to outdoor meals during the summer.
He said, “I try to get outside and actually do the handout whenever I can.” It’s great to see old faces again.
Osborn-Senatus stated that the pantry has not had any problems keeping up with food demand, especially because it partners with community groups like Second Harvest, a local foodbank. She stated that staff are grateful for the opportunity to offer this type of community meal, even though it may look a little different at the moment.