HOLIDAY HELP
from the
FOOD PANTRY
Happy faces were in abundance last Thursday when the Cedar Key Community Food Pantry held its annual Thanksgiving distribution. Ninety area families signed up to receive a turkey and box of food supplies, including the makings of a traditional holiday dinner.
According to Donna Beach, Director of the Pantry, the number of families requesting assistance started rising in the early summer, and is now over 50% more than just two years ago. Some are elderly or disabled, and a significant number are under-employed families, with adults who work but do not make enough pay or get enough hours to meet all of the bills, and still provide adequate food.
To receive assistance, a family must live in the 32625 zip code and meet the USDA guidelines for a low income household.
The Pantry is supported entirely by contributions from civic and social clubs, all of the churches, and individuals in the community. Food drives are important, and cash goes a long way, since the Pantry buys most of its supplies at large discount from the regional food bank in Gainesville. The Pantry has no expenses, so 100% of contributions are spent on food supplies.
“I think that it speaks well of our community that, small as we are, people ban together to help neighbors in need”, says Beach. The pantry is now gearing up to distribute a similar box of food for the Christmas Holiday, and will provide an extra bag for children who need an in-home breakfast and lunch during the school break.
The Pantry is open from 2:30 to 4:30 on Thursdays.
Volunteers and contributions are always appreciated!
***********
