Middleton’s Sole Food Pantry Faces Rising Demand in a Worn-Out Facility: How You Can Help!

Middleton, Idaho, has a food pantry that supports around 135 families each month, which totals about 750 people. However, the pantry is facing challenges due to its aging building, making it hard to meet the rising demand for food assistance.

Since opening in 2013, the pantry has operated on a unique model that lets families choose their own food, preserving their dignity while ensuring they have enough to eat. Yet, with Middleton’s population growing, this building is becoming increasingly inadequate.

Volunteer David Luiz emphasized the pantry’s aim: “Our mission is to provide food security for folks in our community.” Despite their dedication, space and temperature issues have made it tough for both families and volunteers. Tom Ott, a user of the pantry who relies on Social Security, mentioned that cramped conditions hinder proper service. “They do the best job they can, and it’s very difficult for them,” he said.

Long-time visitor Corianne Bates echoed concerns over food safety. “If it’s not air-conditioned enough, the food can spoil,” she noted. She believes a larger, safer space would vastly improve operations.

The pantry runs solely on volunteer power, with about 50 people sharing a passion for helping their neighbors. “It’s a blessing to live in Middleton,” Luiz said. The group is currently seeking a new building, ideally something larger like a pole barn that can accommodate their equipment better.

Recent studies show that food insecurity is rising in many areas across the U.S., with nearly 1 in 10 households facing challenges in accessing enough food. This makes the work of places like the Middleton food pantry increasingly crucial. As community needs grow, it’s essential for support systems to adapt and expand.

For more insights on food insecurity and how local pantries can help, you can read reports from the USDA here.

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