We are a non profit, non discriminating food charity nestled in the Gilkey Community Center in Rutherfordton, NC that provides food for approximately 400 families per month. Neighbor's Pantry, which began in 1997, has grown in it's nearly 20 years in existence. Each month, food items vary, but meats, breads, sweets, drinks, and non-perishables are always provided. Local producers have donated ite
ms for the pantry, with other items coming from supermarkets and larger food organizations such as Second Harvest Food Bank. But while what we are able to provide helps, most of the time it isn't enough. We've seen an increase in elderly grandparents, who are already living on a fixed income, raising grand & great grandchildren. We try very hard to include 'fixings' for a single meal in each basket. For example, if the pantry receives tomato sauce, that month's box will include pasta as well. Neighbor's Food Pantry also provides emergency boxes for families. Dept of Social Services or home health nurses can call us to let us know when someone doesn't have food. It is important to note that all work is volunteer based & NO ONE receives a salary or monetary compensation whatsoever. ALL donations go directly to the operations of the Food Pantry & supplies thereof. These are all on-going & ever increasing needs on a daily basis. Unfortunately the number of our clients grows daily. Each prospective client must meet a certain criteria. Recipients of SNAP (food stamps) and/or low incomes are eligible. The amount of food received depends on the number of people in the home. We do not give out any monies. We, the board and it's volunteers, strive to follow the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:35 "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in..." It is heart wrenching to see how many children & elderly come in depending on what little we have to share. Many a tear has been shed over stories. It is sometimes hard to lay your head down at night knowing someone else is going to bed hungry. It is our fervent wish that hunger be stricken from at least our small part of the world. Thank you for helping us help others.
