GLENWOOD, Iowa — The ongoing government shutdown is hitting rural communities hard, and Glenwood is no exception. The Mills County Storehouse, a vital thrift store and food pantry, is feeling the strain as food security becomes an increasing concern.
Bob Cummings, a dedicated volunteer at the storehouse, notes that almost every appointment for food assistance is fully booked. “We’ve added extra slots to meet the rising demand,” he shared. Families are feeling the pinch. The pantry served 166 families last year, but that number jumped to 192 last month, impacting over 560 people.
As President Kori Kenkel explains, while the organization is managing finances well for now, there are real worries about the future. “If this situation continues, we could run into deficits,” she said. The pantry relies on local grocery stores for discounted food items and community support, where shoppers often contribute by purchasing extra donations.
Unlike urban food banks, rural pantries face unique challenges. “We appreciate the local support, but we don’t have the corporate donations that larger cities enjoy,” Kenkel mentioned. This difference emphasizes the crucial role community members play in sustaining that support.
According to a recent USDA report, food insecurity has steadily increased in rural areas, now affecting nearly 14% of residents compared to 10% in urban settings. This disparity highlights the difficulties faced by those in rural regions and the critical need for effective support solutions.
With these challenges looming, the Mills County Storehouse is a beacon of hope in Glenwood. Yet, the reliance on local community engagement remains vital as families navigate these tough times. The ongoing discussions about government aid underline the urgency for a resolution to secure the well-being of these communities.
You can read more about food security issues on the USDA’s Economic Research Service site.
Source link
iowa,food pantry,government shutdown,mills county storehouse,bob cummings,glenwood,kori kenkel,food
