New Food Pantry Location Open in Wellsville
WELLSVILLE — The First Baptist Church Food Pantry has moved to a new spot in the Wellsville Clinic Building, officially welcoming the community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The pantry had been at the church but needed a larger space to better serve everyone.
The food pantry will now be in the basement of the clinic, with easy access for clients. It opens every Friday from 3 to 5 PM and is ready to accept new clients.
During the opening event, community leaders expressed their gratitude. Eddie Murphy, director of the Wellsville Community Foundation, shared her belief that the relocation was miraculous. Wellsville Mayor Bob Boley thanked the volunteers for their unwavering support. East Liverpool City Hospital CEO, Stephanie Conn, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to community service and looked forward to strengthening partnerships to support the pantry.
“We’re excited about this new chapter,” Conn said. “This will help us serve families in need more effectively.”
Terry and Vicki McCuen have run the pantry for 22 years. They recalled its humble beginnings back in 2003, when it operated from a small house with no electricity. They shared how the pantry transformed, emphasizing that the new location will significantly improve service.
The new clinic space eliminates the need for the extensive setup and tear down required at the church. Volunteers can now focus on distributing food without the hassle of extra logistics.
According to a recent survey by Feeding America, food insecurity affects about 10.5% of households in the U.S. That number has risen due to the economic impact of the pandemic, highlighting the importance of local food pantries.
Vicki noted how the new space will improve the experience for clients. “Now, they can come in, sit down, and wait for their turn instead of standing in line outside,” she said.
As this food pantry continues to grow, it represents a vital resource for the Wellsville community. The ongoing support from local partners and volunteers ensures that this mission will carry on, helping those who need it most.
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Local News,First Baptist Church Food Pantry opens in new location