During the joyous Holiday Season, one Amherst County food bank finds itself in a challenging situation. Neighbors Helping Neighbors of Amherst County has been a pillar of the community for the past seven years. President Garry Friend initiated this nonprofit after his tenure as a Treasurer in the county. His motivation was to assist those who often struggle to help themselves. As a Treasurer, he witnessed people facing difficulties in paying their taxes and decided to take action.

Current Challenges and Solutions

For the past few months, both community donations and USDA contributions have been on a decline, leaving the food bank with insufficient stock on the shelves. Friend explained that they have been using their money donations to purchase food for families, but this is not a sustainable approach for a nonprofit. In response to the shortage, Friend engaged in discussions with the board. Board member Kelly Urbani suggested posting on Facebook about their needs, and the community responded remarkably. With over 300 shares, the community came together to ensure that food was replenished on the shelves.

Biggest Needs

Currently, the food bank's greatest requirements are red meat, chicken, and cans of soup and tomatoes. These essential items are in high demand to meet the nutritional needs of the families they serve. The warehouse is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., providing a convenient time for individuals to make donations. To find out how you can contribute, simply click here.

Impact of Community Support

The outpouring of community love has been truly inspiring. In the past two weeks, Friend has been busier than he has been in a while, indicating the positive response from the community. This support not only helps in replenishing the food supplies but also brings a sense of unity and togetherness during the Holiday Season. It shows that even in difficult times, the community comes together to make a difference.

Long-Term Vision

Neighbors Helping Neighbors of Amherst County aims to continue serving the community in the long term. They are working on establishing more sustainable donation channels and exploring ways to increase community awareness about their cause. By doing so, they hope to ensure that no one in the county goes hungry during the Holiday Season and beyond.