TARA Food Pantry: A Lifeline for Rural Arboles Residents
A Community Gem in a Food Desert
Nestled among the picturesque mesas southeast of Ignacio, the community of Arboles, home to around 400 residents, is celebrated for its rugged rural charm and breathtaking scenery. With Chimney Rock and Navajo Lake Resort drawing visitors in, the tranquil lifestyle is a major attraction. However, this idyllic setting harbors a stark reality: the nearest grocery store is 20 miles away, rendering Arboles a U.S. Department of Agriculture-certified food desert. Here, access to fresh food is more than a convenience; it’s a necessity that defines lives.
Responding to the Needs of the Community
Susan Halkin, co-coordinator of the TARA Food Pantry, recognized the urgent need for accessible food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its inception in 2020, the pantry has emerged as a critical resource, serving 70 families weekly. "We provide a vital service for working families and seniors, many of whom cannot afford the gas to make the long trip to the nearest store," says Halkin. The pantry has successfully bridged the gap, ensuring that no resident goes hungry.
In the last week of February, the pantry distributed food to 71 seniors, 57 adults, and 28 children, showcasing its role as a lifeline for the community.
Uncertainty Ahead: Funding Challenges
Despite the pantry’s success, a wave of uncertainty has swept through Arboles following a federal funding freeze implemented in late January. Halkin lamented, "We relied on over $25,000 in funding from the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program, which is now locked away." Although they recently received funding from The Emergency Food Assistance Program, that too has been frozen, making the pantry’s future precarious.
A Testament to Community Spirit
Yet, hope remains. Thanks to clutch fundraising efforts like the Indivisible Durango food drive, which collected over $5,275, the pantry continues to thrive. This community-driven spirit, characterized by volunteers like Lisa Norris and Cheri Melichar, highlights the close-knit culture that defines Arboles. Residents have rallied together, showcasing their compassionate nature.
Building and Nourishing Community Connections
The TARA Historical Society and Community Center, which houses the pantry, serves as a multifaceted facility for the community. It features a library, offers thrift store access, and preserves local history. Established in the 1970s, the center has transformed into the neighborhood’s heartbeat, fostering deep connections among its residents. "Since we opened in 2020, this place has become a hub for the community," expresses Halkin.
Sherri Foster, co-founder of the center, echoes this sentiment: "Arboles has grown stronger; it feels like a welcoming and neighborly place." Embedded in their identity is the commitment to support each other, regardless of adversity.
Call to Action
As the TARA Food Pantry continues to support its local families, it invites residents and non-residents alike to contribute through food and monetary donations. Funds raised can help ensure the pantry continues to provide this essential service while helping fight food insecurity in the region.
In a world where the human connection often feels lost, the spirit of Arboles shines through. As Halkin puts it, "When the community comes together, it’s a beautiful thing."
If you’re interested in supporting the pantry, consider donating or volunteering. Together, we can ensure that the TARA Food Pantry remains a vital resource for the Arboles community.
For further insights, visit USDA’s Resources on Food Deserts and learn how you can help combat food insecurity.
