Food pantry $32K short at year’s end

After seeing more clients and higher food costs, a local food pantry seeks $32,000 in donations to catch up to its expenses. 

Community Food Pantry at 306 N. 19th St. in Richmond served 4,989 families through Dec. 12. 

Board President Eldon Harzman said the pantry has seen slightly more families and its food costs are some higher than the same period in 2023. 

However, he said the pantry’s donations have declined. Although income from churches and grants has held steady, contributions from individuals and households are significantly down.

Harzman said the pantry has enough reserve to cover this loss for this year, so it won’t have to close. 

However, with demand growing and food costs increasing, a cash infusion is needed to begin 2025 without a deficit, he said. 

The pantry opened in 1982 after Richmond area churches collaborated to reduce hunger. It has operated from its current home near Starr Elementary School since 1985.

Volunteers from about two dozen churches aim to provide food consistent with a balanced diet.

The pantry is open from 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, except for holidays and when Richmond Community Schools is closed for inclement weather.

Clients are eligible to receive food twice a month with at least 15 days between visits. They must provide a picture ID card, proof of address for every adult in the home and the last four digits of Social Security cards for each resident. Those who are unable to get their own food may seek permission in advance for a proxy to pick up their groceries.