By Patricia A. Scheyer
NKyTribune reporter
Thanksgiving is a time when food takes center stage. Everyone deserves a hearty meal, especially during the holidays. This year, the need is even more pressing due to the government shutdown, which affected many who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Some had to scramble to find meals, while others faced food shortages.
Many food drives across cities, schools, and churches ended recently, particularly those held each November. One organization, Go Pantry, located in Florence, focuses on providing meals to children, especially when schools are closed.
Beth McIntire, Go Pantry’s co-founder and executive director, shared that they need specific items like fruit cups, poptarts, and microwaveable popcorn. For this winter break, they ask for donations by December 3 so they can distribute food in “GO boxes” to children who need it.
Additionally, Go Pantry is running a campaign called Racing to Restock, aiming to raise $35,000 through donations and fundraisers. McIntire explained that financial contributions help them buy food in bulk at lower prices. So far, this year’s initiative has raised over $5,600, thanks to 12 teams competing to raise the most money before New Year’s Eve.
Florence recently completed its own food drive, delivering all collected items to Collins Elementary for the Boone County Family Resource Center. Melissa Kramer, City Clerk of Florence, mentioned that contributors included Duke Energy, which donated $1,000. They collected a variety of foods like peanut butter, canned fruits, and rice.
Erlanger took a unique approach this year. Community Engagement Coordinator Lauryn Groce noted that the city partnered with Feed the Soul, a Cincinnati-based nonprofit. They distributed 50 bags of fresh produce directly to residents, with police officers and firefighters assisting in the process.
Schools like Notre Dame Academy and Covington Catholic High School held food drives, benefiting both Go Pantry and other local nonprofits like St. Vincent de Paul. Florence Christian Church also supports those in need through its Care and Share food pantry, providing essential items and hygiene products during scheduled events.
The United Christian Volunteers, a small group serving the Elsmere community since the ’90s, operates a year-round food pantry. They recently provided turkeys and gift certificates to those who signed up for holiday assistance. This year, they opted for gift cards instead of turkeys due to logistical challenges.
Be Concerned, another nonprofit in Covington, regularly offers non-perishable goods and is preparing to distribute turkeys and side dishes to those in need.
Mary Rose Mission, the only soup kitchen in Florence, provides hot meals every evening without requiring paperwork or prior registration. They have been serving around 100 to 125 meals per night since they opened their doors in 2013.
In a recent survey, 25% of families reported struggling to access enough food, reflecting a broader trend of food insecurity nationwide. Experts suggest that community initiatives play a crucial role in supporting those in need, especially during the holidays. Local organizations are vital lifelines for families facing these challenges.
As the holiday season unfolds, it’s important to check on nonprofit food sources in your area to see how you can help those facing hardship this year.
