Community Comes Together Amid Food Pantry Shortages
In early June, the community faced a heart-wrenching reality when Matthew 25:35 Ministries, a dedicated food pantry in Destrehan, shared striking images of nearly empty shelves on their Facebook page. The post poignantly asked for assistance:
“We would be blessed by your help. Second Harvest is very limited with the food they have to share.”
A Call to Action: The Community Steps Up
Less than a week after the call for support, the pantry offered a heartfelt thank-you to its community. Local organizations swiftly rallied to action:
- Grand Ridge Country Club in Willowdale established a donation site.
- Shell and Valero organized food drives.
- Sacred Heart Church mobilized resources from its own pantry to restock the shelves.
Numerous community members, including OxyChem and the Rotary Club, came together, providing not just food but also monetary donations that allowed the pantry to purchase necessary supplies. The pantry’s social media updates reflected a wave of gratitude:
“Many have stopped by with food and funds since we announced our shelves were almost empty. There is no way to list everyone, but thank you to all!”
Understanding the Demand: A Lifeline for Families
Mary Anne Schindler, director of Matthew 25:35 Ministries, emphasized the pressing need for support, stating that the pantry serves between 300 to 350 households every month, with distribution events held every Wednesday at 1905 Ormond Boulevard in Destrehan.
“The community has responded as they always do—with a huge open heart,” Schindler remarked.
She noted that individuals are increasingly donating items they buy on promotions or sending in cash contributions, enabling the pantry to purchase food at lower prices.
A Critical Situation: USDA Funding Cuts
As summer approaches, food donations historically decline, and agencies like Second Harvest are facing significant challenges. Second Harvest Food Bank, which supplies Matthew 25:35 Ministries, has been hit hard by USDA funding cuts. With over $1 billion in federal support eliminated, the impact on local food banks has been profound.
John Sillars, chief strategy officer for Second Harvest, communicated the gravity of the situation to Fox8, forecasting a staggering loss of 1.2 million meals between now and August. The USDA’s audit is further complicating matters for food banks across the state.
“We usually receive 10,000 pounds of food each week from Second Harvest, but this month has seen fluctuations from 0 to 3,900 pounds,” Schindler explains.
Rallying Together: A Call for Donations
In the face of these challenges, the pantry is mobilizing to organize food drives, recognizing the unpredictable nature of federal funding.
Loreli Amy Rogers, Vice President of the pantry’s Board, echoed the importance of community support, stating:
“We want to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed. We couldn’t do it without you.”
The pantry serves a diverse clientele—from families needing temporary assistance to individuals facing ongoing food insecurity. Rogers emphasizes:
“Anyone can find themselves in a position where they need help.”
What Can You Do? Get Involved!
Schindler has issued a gentle plea for prayers and tangible support, as the pantry continually accepts nonperishable items. Essential donations include:
- Canned tuna or chicken
- Soups and canned fruit
- Spaghetti and sauces
- Breakfast items like oatmeal and food bars
- Personal hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste
The St. Charles United Methodist Church’s Fellowship Hall serves as a drop-off point for the East Bank community.
A National Perspective on Food Insecurity
According to Feeding America, over 47 million people in the U.S. face hunger, with 1 in 5 children impacted by food insecurity. In 2023 alone, more than 50 million individuals have sought assistance, necessitating continued community engagement and support.
By shining a light on local initiatives and the pressing need for support, we can work together to combat hunger in our communities. Your contributions can make a significant difference. Let’s unite, uplift, and ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
