December 17, 2025

There's a saying...about Reaching out the Hand of Friendship...That just spoke to me this week as I was reflecting on You, our readers, and our community at large. Rita wrote a grant, titled PB&J, and submitted it to THRIVENT.  She was awarded enough funding to purchase several hundred pounds of peanut butter, jelly, and crackers and other items for our pantry. Radiant Church held a food drive for Thanksgiving. They had several hundred pounds of food they offered us for distribution and several pre-lit Christmas trees with ornaments. All items were offered to our neighbors on this past Saturday. Apple Valley Woodcrafters and Wal-Mart donated toys. Flavor First donated 5 cases of tomatoes and a box of green peppers. MilkCo donated 5 cases of milk. FUMC led the charge to help unload several thousand pounds of food from Manna. Kim and Bill baked tasty treats for the volunteers. All our volunteering spots were filled this past Saturday as we welcomed 172 families.

With donations of food left in our pantry foyer and so many acts of kindness this week,  truly a community Reaching out the Hand of Friendship, especially to help our neighbors with food insecurity.

Saturday, we welcomed 172 families representing 678 individuals. There were 18 new families representing 58 family members. We continue to need volunteers who can help with Spanish registrations. Once a month would be very helpful!

On behalf of our Pantry Board, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous food and monetary donations to our pantry. Your donations will make a significant impact on the lives of those in our community who are struggling with food insecurity. 

-Kathy Noyes, for the Executive Committee