A church in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, is making strides to help feed its community. The Carol Hummel Food Pantry at Shepherd at the Sea Lutheran Church supports around 400 families each week. This number has surged to nearly triple what it was just a year and a half ago.
Many families struggle to make it to the food bank due to busy schedules or late work shifts. To address this, the food pantry received a grant from the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation. This funding allowed them to purchase new pick-up lockers, giving families more flexibility. Once food is placed in a locker, families can collect it at their convenience within a 15-hour window.
For now, the pantry operates pick-up service three days a week, but there are plans to expand to five days and serve an additional 60 families. Deb Smith, the pantry director, explains how the locker system works. It’s quite similar to ordering takeout. Participants choose their food items online, and the next day, they receive a text or email when their order is ready.
The pantry is equipped with 12 freezers and 16 refrigerators to ensure that perishable items stay fresh. Smith emphasizes the effort put into storing and preparing the food, ensuring safety and quality for all pick-ups.
To manage the limited space for these lockers, the pantry requires an interview for those interested in using the service. This step helps ensure that they can sustain their resources effectively.
Food insecurity is a growing concern in many communities. According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 10% of households in the U.S. faced food insecurity in 2021. Programs like the one at Shepherd at the Sea play a crucial role in mitigating this issue by providing access to food for families in need.
By adapting to the community’s needs and expanding services, the Carol Hummel Food Pantry is not just feeding families, but also fostering a sense of support and connection in Murrells Inlet.
For further details on the food pantry’s services, visit Shepherd of the Sea.
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