Ministerial Association discontinues food pantry
LAUREL — The Laurel-Concord Ministerial Association is serving up some changes to its food assistance programs.
The Ministerial Association has long been considering how best to manage its food pantry with concerns about food waste and expiring items on the shelves. And most recently, the food pantry’s physical location at the United Presbyterian Church will be used for Laurel-Concord-Coleridge School programs. Those two situations makes it an opportune time for change, said Matt Quanbeck, the Ministerial Association chairman.
The food pantry is not being used consistently so expiring food items end up being donated to other organizations, he said. Instead of relocating, the ministerial has decided to discontinue maintaining a physical food pantry. Leftover food will be donated to the Norfolk Rescue Mission, he said.
Food assistance will continue to be provided through the association’s voucher system. Those in need will be able to receive a gift card to Laurel’s Hometown Market.
“This ensures that they can pick out what they will truly use,” Quanbeck said.
This system has already been in use for items that were not available at the food pantry. The Hometown Market has a list on file of items which cannot be purchased with these gift cards, he said.
The backpack lunch program may also be undergoing some changes.
As part of the program, the Ministerial Association has been sending meals home on weekends with kids who may not have enough to eat at home.
Recently, several observers of the program have expressed food waste concerns.
The Association is exploring options to more effectively distribute food to children in need, Quanbeck said. One option being considered is setting up a “Blessing Box” near the school with stocked non-perishable items that residents can take when needed. The concept is similar to the Little Libraries boxes where people can take or leave books, he said.
The association will continue to take financial donations for its assistance fund.
“We are so thankful to be part of a community that gives generously to those in need,” Quanbeck said. “We desire to steward those funds in a way that effectively meets the needs that are there.”
Accountability is prioritized by the association. At each meeting, Treasurer Scott Kahn presents the group with a financial statement of where funds have been distributed. He also maintains a record of families who have received assistance.
If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, call or text 402-316-2718. You can also send an email to laurelconcordministerial@gmail.com. Questions or suggestions for the Ministerial Association can be directed to Quanbeck at 402-369-7996.
