Lord, when did we see you hungry, and feed you (Matthew 25:37)
Thanks to all our parishioners for your generous donations of food and service to our St. Joseph Food Pantry.
The pantry will be open for distribution for clients every Wednesday from 4:30 to 6:45.
Pantry at Work
St. Joseph Food Pantry has approximately 70 volunteers, divided into teams with specific responsibilities. The Inventory Team works on Monday to add your food donations to the pantry shelves. Items are processed by marking the bar codes, sorting by item and expiration date. We are so proud of our youth, they have worked in the pantry as well as organized food collection drives. On Tuesday or Wednesday, the Assembly Team, fills recyclable grocery bags for Client Distribution. We also have a Shopping Team, Financial and Data Input Leaders and a Special Events Committee.
When a person comes to the pantry for their first visit, they register with our bilingual Client Registration Team. Client information is saved on a client log. The information we gather includes name, address, number of family members, allergies, and if they have an infant. We also ask if they are members or attend St. Brendan’s .
The pantry depends solely on food provided by our parishioners, other ministries and groups. As the pantry continues to grow and serve more families, we will need your generosity more than ever. Your volunteer participation, as well as food donations will be extremely important. We have established a new level of participation called Pantry Partner’s. By filling out a “Partner” form, you will offer to provide, on a regular basis, as many items of food as you wish. These are the most needed pantry items. We hope you will also consider volunteering for one of the many committees. Whether you are an individual, a family, a group or a business, your support is vital. Perhaps you have a neighborhood association, a social group or a business, if so, please consider organizing a food drive. Your help will insure continuation of this loving ministry.
There have been many happenings that have touched our hearts … the spirit of the volunteers, the generosity of our parishioners, the giving of other St. Brendan’s Ministries, and support from local businesses and organizations. Most of all, the appreciation from those we serve. A person came to the pantry to register, and said that it was a goal to get to the point where they can make donations to the pantry. Many people find themselves in an economic situation that was never expected or imagined.
Our volunteers share a common goal … to provide a welcoming environment, a friendly smile and a word of encouragement.
We welcome your ideas and thoughts as to ways we can better serve.
God bless …
Barbara Gordon, Ministry Head
The St. Joseph Food Pantry can be contacted via email at foodpantry@stbrendansatl.com or barbaradgordon@aol.com. Alternately, you can call (770) 888-3258.
