PERRY CO., Ind. – In a challenging situation, the Widow’s Barrel food pantry in Tell City is set to close by the end of January. This is a significant blow to many families in the area who rely on their services.
The pantry, which has been serving the community since 2001, became independent about seven years ago. Recently, tensions arose with Community Christian Church, which previously allowed the pantry to operate autonomously. The church sought more oversight and requested financial records. This disagreement led to the church deciding to evict the pantry from its building.
Mark Laflin, the director of the food pantry, expressed deep concern for the families affected. “This month, we helped 285 families, which is about 800 individuals. There’s no other operation that can replace what we’re about to lose,” he emphasized.
Despite the pantry’s challenges, it has strong community support. Laflin noted, “It’s going to take everyone to solve this. I can’t do it alone.” Many volunteers, some of whom also rely on the pantry, are dedicated to this cause.
The pantry provides essential resources, especially for vulnerable groups like the elderly. Laflin shared, “We’ve had several people say that without us, they wouldn’t be able to eat.” This impact showcases the dire need for food assistance in the region.
As they search for a new location, the community’s response will be crucial. According to recent statistics from Feeding America, nearly 38 million people in the U.S. experience food insecurity. Local efforts like Widow’s Barrel highlight the importance of grassroots initiatives in addressing this pressing issue.
For now, the final day for the pantry’s operations is January 21st, but hopes remain high for a new beginning. The community’s collective effort and support will be vital in keeping this lifeline available for those in need.
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