As the holiday season approaches, local initiatives are making a significant impact on the lives of those in need. In Panama City, Florida, various organizations are working tirelessly to ensure that families have access to essential food supplies. Sally Sparks, a local resident, founded An Angel’s Food Pantry 15 years ago and has been dedicated to providing food bags to those in need ever since. She manages to feed around 500 families annually during the holiday season. "Giving Hope through Thanksgiving Food Assistance"
An Angel’s Food Pantry: A Lifeline for Families
Sally Sparks, a Panama City resident, started An Angel’s Food Pantry 15 years ago. She delivers food bags to about ten families on Mondays and Fridays a week. During the Thanksgiving holiday, she typically provides four to five turkeys per family. This year, she has already delivered to five families and received one more request for Thanksgiving. Her efforts have made a substantial difference in the lives of many.She understands the importance of providing a proper Thanksgiving meal for families. "It's not just about the food; it's about the sense of community and togetherness during this special time," she said. Her dedication and hard work have earned her the respect and gratitude of the community.The Salvation Army: A Beacon of Hope
The Salvation Army is another local organization that plays a crucial role in feeding the community. They distribute bags and boxes of food from Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. With Thanksgiving and schools being closed this week, they have been overwhelmed with requests."Shae Wellsthomas, the Social Service Coordinator for the Salvation Army, explained, 'A lot of them are coming this week alone, just for Thanksgiving. We are the ones that provide their Thanksgiving meal for them.' Their efforts to ensure that families have a proper Thanksgiving meal are truly commendable.However, due to the high demand, they are already running out of food. That's why they are appealing to the community for generous donations. "It's something that we desperately need right now. Anything that the community can do to help us continue to provide is greatly appreciated," said Wellsthomas.People can contribute by dropping off non-perishable items at the Salvation Army's office on 15th Street or by calling 850-769-5259 option 2.The Salvation Army usually provides three days' worth of food, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They also distribute 20 bags of food every day to families, and those in need can receive them once a month."Wellsthomas added, 'It's always a blessing to be able to help someone in need. That's the biggest thing of working for the Salvation Army. You get that feel-good every day because you know you're actually helping people that are in need. And just thinking about if you were not there, what would happen?' Their work is a testament to the power of community and compassion.Copyright 2024 WJHG. All rights reserved.
