Food Pantry Update:
It has been a while since we have published an update of the activities of the Garretson Food Pantry.
In September we served 13 families which included 23 adults and 28 children for a total of 51 people.
On Fridays, 14 backpacks are picked up by children at the school, which helps the families with nutrition over the weekend. Each bag serves 2 children so we are serving 28 children per week with the backpack program.
So that comes to 163 people on an average we serve each month. We also assist with purchasing milk for snack time at the school for children that need assistance. The cost of backpacks and milk assistance is around $700+ per month.
A new program was started this last year by the great idea of Brian and Heather Howe. People can pay for gallons of milk at Garretson Food Center. When we assist our families with food we hand out coupons for milk that can be redeemed at the store.
The Garretson Food Pantry has been self sufficient for several years because of the overwhelming support of businesses, churches, youth groups, school groups and many generous individuals. We are a 501c3 so your contributions are tax deductible. We take non perishable donations, fresh produce, processed deer meat, and processed meat. We purchase all our groceries from Garretson Food Center.
They give us a very good discount and they deliver the groceries to the Food Pantry. Because of our increased numbers, we are asking for your help. We are not in a crisis mode. We have funds in bank for about 4 months.
November and December are historically the months when the majority of our funds are received. I just wanted to make the public aware that we could use some help so we can continue to help our neighbors.
Monetary donations can be given to John Brinkman at the bank, Kris Frerk or Judy Ellis. Food donations can be dropped off at The Treasure Chest or at a designated tote at Garretson Food Center. We will be putting in a short article in the Garretson Gazette of our current needs.
The Garretson Food Pantry and the families we serve want to thank the community for the many donations we have received over the years. Garretson is a very caring community.
Current Needs for Food Pantry
- Mac & Cheese Hamburger Helper
- Tuna Helper
- Pancake Mix
- Syrup
- Peanut Butter
- Cereal
- Pop Tarts
- Taco Seasoning
- Individual pudding packs
Before donating food items, please check expiration dates.
-Kris Frerk, Garretson Food Pantry
