Food Cupboard Ministry Team Gathers to Plan and Strengthen Community Support
The Food Cupboard Ministry Team recently met to discuss key plans and initiatives aimed at continuing their mission to serve families in need. The meeting, held on February 26th, centered around upcoming food drives, a new survey for users, and recommendations for donations to enhance the ministry’s impact, particularly through the Blessing Boxes.
Macaroni March and Applesauce April: Month-Long Food Drives
The team is gearing up for two important food drives in the coming months. March will bring “Macaroni March,” an initiative aimed at collecting all types of pasta (macaroni and cheese, egg noodles, spaghetti, hamburger helper) to stock the cupboard for families in need. Organizers are encouraging community members to donate all types of pasta throughout the month of March.
In April, the focus will shift to “Applesauce April,” where the ministry is requesting donations of canned fruit. A healthy and versatile item, canned fruit is in high demand, especially for families with young children. These themed drives not only help the cupboard stock essential items but also provide the community with clear guidelines for how they can make a meaningful contribution.
User Survey to Improve Services
In an effort to better understand the needs of those they serve, the team will be conducting a survey for food cupboard users in the coming weeks. The survey will gather valuable insights into what types of food items are most needed, how the ministry can improve its services, and any barriers users might face when accessing the cupboard. This feedback will play a crucial role in shaping future food drives and programs to ensure they are as effective as possible.
The survey will be available both online and in paper format for users who prefer in-person interaction. The Food Cupboard Ministry encourages everyone who has used their services to take a few moments to fill it out.
Donation Suggestions for Blessing Boxes
As part of their ongoing commitment to serve, the ministry team is also reminding the community about the Blessing Boxes initiative. These small food pantries, located outside the church, are stocked with non-perishable ready to eat food for anyone in need, no questions asked. The team is urging donors to focus on foods that are ready to eat and have a long shelf life.
Recommended items include:
- Protein, granola, or fruit bars
- Peanut butter
- Canned tuna or chicken - pop top cans preferred
- Canned stews - pop top cans preferred
- Canned or individual containers of fruit - pop top cans preferred
- Instant oatmeal packets or dry cereal
- Trail Mix
- Pudding Cups
The team also emphasized that they welcome donations of hygiene products such as soap, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene items, as these are essential but often less thought of during food drives.
Looking Ahead
The team is excited about the progress they’ve made in expanding their outreach and strengthening their relationship with the community. By continuing to provide food, resources, and support, they are ensuring that families in need have access to essential nutrition and care.
As the team prepares for the upcoming food drives and initiatives, they invite everyone to participate and spread the word about the work being done to support local families. Together, the community is making a lasting impact on those who need it most.