TOLEDO, Ohio – The Feed Your Neighborhood Food Pantry at Epiphany Lutheran Church is stepping up as more families face uncertainty with SNAP benefits possibly running out soon.
Every month, this pantry serves hundreds of people, making sure they have enough food on their tables. However, like many food pantries across the country, it’s becoming harder to keep the shelves stocked.
Julie Roehl, a dedicated volunteer, shared her concerns. “We’re seeing new faces who are worried. Many are afraid of how they’ll feed their families,” she said. They often have to purchase food themselves to keep up with demand.
The numbers paint a concerning picture. Roehl mentioned that last month, the pantry assisted about 600 people. This month, that number has jumped to around 800. “We’re expecting even more,” she added.
Conversations among clients often focus on the looming changes to SNAP benefits. Many express fear and frustration over daily food needs.
Unfortunately, the pantry faces additional challenges. Local food banks are also experiencing cuts, which means they can provide less food than before. “We’re receiving smaller quantities of items,” Roehl pointed out.
Despite these hardships, the gratitude from clients makes it all worthwhile. “When someone says, ‘You don’t understand the difference you’re making for my family,’ it confirms we’re doing something important,” she explained.
Aside from food, the pantry also provides clothes, household items, and toiletries, showing that community support goes beyond just meals. Local churches also contribute, helping to keep the pantry running smoothly.
To learn more about the Feed Your Neighborhood Food Pantry and how it helps the Toledo community, click here.
As food insecurity rises in various areas, it’s essential to recognize the efforts of local organizations. According to a recent study by the Food Research & Action Center, nearly 10% of U.S. households faced food insecurity in 2022. This underscores the need for community support and programs like the one at Epiphany Lutheran Church.
By working together, communities can help bridge the gap in these challenging times.
