JMB food pantry relying on community support to make a difference

“The community played a huge role. We got the word out and I always believe in the power of community, so we want people to help, and once they know there’s a need they’re willing. Our full shelves are evidence so we’re just really grateful for the community support,” said Victoria Olinde.

It started as a Facebook post highlighting the needs of the food pantry. Now the shelves are stocked, thanks to support from community members pouring in, keeping a meal on the table for many.

“Send food home with kids who are at risk or who have high needs, and we don’t want any food insecurities going on. So, we send backpacks home with students,” said Kathy Klaverweiden. “This is a huge service to the school. We feed a lot of kids on a weekly basis. We feed them in their critical moments. When there’s emergencies, we feed families in our community. So, having this right here readily accessible, in the heart of Salisbury, there is no better way to serve,” said Olinde.

“A lot of food on the side that’s mainly meals macaroni and cheese and instant things that students can heat up and cook themselves like SpaghettiOs and then lots of snacks because the kids like their juice boxes and they like their snacks and the things that they can keep with them,” said Klaverweiden.

As the donations keep rolling in, coordinators want you to know that donations thus far are making a difference in so many lives.

“It makes a huge difference. We’ve had multiple families, when they come they are so grateful they tell us that it’s really helping them out. Smiles on their faces and they were like “wow” like they couldn’t believe it and they now have their bags for the holidays,” said Foltz.

• Syrup
• Pancake mix
• Jelly
• Peanut butter
• Canned green beans, corn, potatoes and peas
• Mac and cheese cups
• Individualized snacks
• Canned or plastic spaghetti sauce
• Reusable heavy-duty tote bags
• Apple sauce cups