SILGAN CAN … Silgan Can of Napoleon recently donated pallets of canned goods to Archbold Fish Pantry. (PHOTO BY AMY WENDT, STAFF)
By: Amy Wendt
Archbold Fish Pantry has been providing assistance to those in need in the community for almost four decades.
The food pantry currently serves approximately 60 families each month, offering help to those living within the Archbold school district, those with an Archbold mailing address, and those who attend a church that supports the pantry.
In 1984, three women who were part of a Bible study group began the Archbold Fish chapter with a mission to put their “faith into practice.”
With the support of the Archbold Area Ministerial Association, as well as numerous individuals, churches, and businesses in the community, Archbold Fish has been able to serve those in need since its inception.
Initially providing assistance with rent, utilities, gasoline, and prescriptions, the organization expanded in 1993 to include a food pantry.
Serving both the “working poor” and those in crisis situations, the food pantry has become a crucial resource for the community.
Unlike most food pantries that provide pre-packaged boxes of food or offer “drive-through” distribution, the Archbold Fish Pantry is designed like a grocery store, allowing clients to choose the items they need.
The food pantry is open two days per month, giving customers the opportunity to select the items they need from stocked shelves.
Food pantry distribution days are the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
The organization also offers short-term assistance with needs such as rent, electricity, gas, and prescriptions.
While the pantry’s financial assistance is limited, they strive to provide referrals to agencies that may offer long-term support.
Recently, Archbold Fish helped provide short-term housing for a person displaced by a fire at East Garden Apartments.
Fish clients are generally families on fixed incomes, including those receiving Medicaid or Social Security.
While the government-funded SNAP program provides assistance for most of their monthly needs, it may not be enough to feed their families for the entire month, prompting Fish to step in and provide additional support.
The same can be said for older persons who have to stretch their monthly Social Security payments.
The pantry, located at 1309 South Defiance Street, is preparing for building improvements this spring.
After purchasing the building from Farmers and Merchants State Bank a few years ago, the organization is eager to make upgrades that will not only enhance the building’s appearance but also make it more convenient for its customers.
Upgrades will include new exterior siding, energy-efficient windows, and an automatic sliding door to facilitate easy exit for clients with full shopping carts.
Keeping the shelves stocked at the Fish Pantry is no small task. Once or twice a month, Lehman places an order with the Toledo Food Bank to help stock shelves with products that haven’t been donated or to meet the increased need.
The food bank offers area food pantries, meat and food items at a discounted price.
Aside from the Food Bank, the pantry relies entirely on donations from the local community to keep its shelves full.
Area businesses hold food drives, Scouts organize a “Scouting for Food” collection each year, and mail carriers have a “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive. Local farmers also donate extra produce and meat.
When asked if it’s more helpful for Archbold Fish to receive actual donations that can be placed on pantry shelves or cash, Lehman says both are equally welcome.
Canned goods donations that come from across the community provide a diverse stock for the pantry’s shelves.
On the other hand, cash donations help provide the financial assistance that Fish provides to persons who need short-term financial help.
If you would like to donate canned goods, you can call 419-445-0366 to arrange a pick-up or delivery time.
The pantry accepts all unexpired items, but high-demand items include flour, sugar, canola oil, 1 lb bags of rice, refried beans, pancake mix, pancake syrup, shampoo, paper towels, and toilet paper.
If you would like to make a financial contribution, it may be mailed to Archbold Fish Pantry, PO Box 5, Archbold, OH 43502.
There are also many ways for individuals and groups to volunteer at the Fish pantry by bagging groceries, registering guests, unloading deliveries, and restocking shelves.
If you would like to help, you may reach out to the pantry at 419-445-0366.
Amy can be reached at amy@thevillagereporter.com