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Pantry to Celebrate First Anniversary

From staff reports

A church-related food pantry is celebrating its first year of operation next week by honoring some very special people who have supported the new initiative.

The Food Pantry in Gate City, sponsored by the Scott County Ministerial Association, celebrates its first anniversary May 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On tap for the anniversary fete is a chance for officials to honor county leaders who have provided support to the fledgling ministry.

“We are honoring county leaders who have provided unfailing support during the first year of operation,” explained Freida Taylor, executive director of the pantry. “The vision of our founders was ‘to seek the cooperation of local churches, Christian social organizations and the community at large in addressing the poverty needs of Scott County.’”

And the volunteer-based organization has accomplished what it set out to do. Located on Library Street in Gate City, adjacent to the Scott County Administrative Offices and under the Scott County Virginia Star, Scott County Cooperative Ministries is open each Tuesday and Wednesday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The pantry is operated by a dedicated staff of workers and volunteers, Taylor added.

What was once the home of Gate City Motor Company has been renovated into office space, reception area and warehouse storage for the food supply. Food sources are Second Harvest Food Bank and the King Benevolent Fund.

According to Taylor, clients are scheduled to receive food supplies once per month. New clients are accepted on a walk-in basis and no one is turned away, she added.

Many times clients are referred by the Scott County Department of Social Services but the majority discovers the pantry based upon a recommendation by a family member or friend.

Taylor noted that the typical client is a single woman in her 60s, who suffers from multiple medical problems and may be raising her grandchildren.

“A large number of our clients suffer from health problems like diabetes and cancer,” she added. “More than 700 families were served in the past year.”

The pantry accepts donations of clothing and household items, which are distributed to victims of fire or other disasters. Ministers from local churches also take turns to provide spiritual counseling to clients. Each new client is also given a Bible.

The food pantry is currently in need of a volunteer with a truck who can assist the ministry.

“We are in immediate need of a volunteer with a truck who can go to Bristol every two weeks to pick up food for the pantry,” Taylor said. “So far desperation phone calls have always yielded someone, but it would be nice to have that service in place.

“Money for gas is available, so if you have a truck and are able to commit, call 386-9400.”

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