Davidson Memorial’s ‘Little Pantry’ still meeting needs
April 21, 2020
By Rev. Beverly Maguffee
Davidson Memorial UMC in Shepherdsville is operating its "Little Pantry" differently these last couple of months because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pantry has been operating for two years now serving the community once a month (third Wednesday) and invites people to "shop" the shelves for needed items. The pantry supplies not only staple items but also personal-care items, laundry and dish soap, etc.
The pantry is stocked solely by donations from church members. A team of volunteers stocks the pantry, shops for the needed items, and helps guests shop.
March and April's pantry operated on a drive-up basis, with volunteers wearing masks and making sure visitors remained in their cars. It takes a lot of extra effort to operate in such a manner, but it is worth it to reach out to the community in a safe and responsible way, say Davidson members.
The volunteers have developed relationships with those who use the pantry and know the needs of the families so they are able to pre-package the supplies during this time. Volunteers also have bagged groceries and supplies prepared for any new guests.
Volunteers constantly hear, "You have no idea how much this means to me," and "Thank you for what you're doing." Regular guests who do not show up for their monthly shopping prompts a pantry volunteer to call to check on the family.
As their pastor, I know firsthand that Davidson Memorial is filled with those with servant’s hearts. They are mighty, mighty servants who care for one another and the community in so many ways.
The pantry has been operating for two years now serving the community once a month (third Wednesday) and invites people to "shop" the shelves for needed items. The pantry supplies not only staple items but also personal-care items, laundry and dish soap, etc.
The pantry is stocked solely by donations from church members. A team of volunteers stocks the pantry, shops for the needed items, and helps guests shop.
March and April's pantry operated on a drive-up basis, with volunteers wearing masks and making sure visitors remained in their cars. It takes a lot of extra effort to operate in such a manner, but it is worth it to reach out to the community in a safe and responsible way, say Davidson members.
The volunteers have developed relationships with those who use the pantry and know the needs of the families so they are able to pre-package the supplies during this time. Volunteers also have bagged groceries and supplies prepared for any new guests.
Volunteers constantly hear, "You have no idea how much this means to me," and "Thank you for what you're doing." Regular guests who do not show up for their monthly shopping prompts a pantry volunteer to call to check on the family.
As their pastor, I know firsthand that Davidson Memorial is filled with those with servant’s hearts. They are mighty, mighty servants who care for one another and the community in so many ways.