(PHOTO BY BRIANNA BALOGH / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
EDON FOOD PANTRY … The Edon Food Pantry relocated last August from the United Methodist Church to its new home in the old fire station.
By: Brianna Balogh
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Edon Food Pantry, a vital lifeline for many local families since 2011, is facing growing challenges as it grapples with reduced supplies and increased demand.
These local struggles reflect a national trend, with an estimated 1 in 7 Americans expected to rely on a food bank this year.
Food insecurity is a growing concern within local communities, often affecting rural communities at a higher rate. Food deserts and lack of transportation can make fresh affordable food difficult to access.
Recent changes at the federal level have added to the issues already faced by food banks. Funding cuts have significant consequences for local communities.
Many food banks face challenges in securing fresh, nutritious food. The long-term effects have yet to be seen but could be substantial, as food banks adjust to new financial realities while continuing to serve vulnerable populations.
Two major suppliers, Toledo Northwestern Ohio Food Bank and SeaGate Food Bank, have seen a significant reduction in supplies. Jeff Bowling said that most of the supplies at Edon Food Pantry come from these two banks.
However, even when supply is available, storage has been a challenge. Last August the food bank moved from the United Methodist Church to the old fire station which helped alleviate some of the storage issues. The location change also allowed the food bank to offer morning hours.
Increased demand has strained the shorter supply as well. Edon serviced 50 families last month, up from the normal 30 families.
Additionally, an increase in senior citizens in need has been seen, first noted in January. Many residents on a fixed income are finding it harder to sustain themselves with the rise in grocery prices.
Along with food, a voucher program is provided. $35 food vouchers enable families to purchase perishable items such as milk and eggs that are not always available at the food bank.
Occasionally, however, the food bank does receive such items, as evidenced by several dozen eggs available this past Tuesday.
With all the recent challenges being faced, there are many ways local residents can get involved and help. Currently, the Edon Food Bank is serviced by the E.A.M.A., Edon Area Ministerial Association.
Included in the E.A.M.A. are St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Edon Church of Christ, United Methodist Church, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Blakeslee, and the Columbia Church of Christ. Each week volunteers from each congregation help run the food bank.
Along with food donations, monetary donations are also welcome and greatly appreciated. These donations help support the voucher program among many others.
Common food items that are always requested include instant mashed potatoes, crackers, and dessert mixes. While all food items are accepted, it is asked that donations be within the expiration date.
Local businesses can also offer support such as the Dollar General in Edgerton, who donate food items.
Inspired to help meet the ongoing demand for safe food storage, the food bank received a much-needed donation of freezers from Dave and Carolyn Licky, and the Wes Maier family.
The Maier family also donated 25 pounds of hamburger along with 25 boxes of hamburger helper. The school also recently held a cereal drive to support the food bank.
Beyond direct donations, residents can make a difference by organizing food drives, advocating for increased funding with local representatives, and encouraging businesses to share surplus food.
Spreading awareness on platforms like social media can help encourage others to get involved and increase donations.
Small actions collectively can create a major impact. Communities that actively support food banks help ensure fewer people go hungry.
Donations can be made at any of the E.A.M.A. churches and at the food bank during business hours.
Families in need of assistance can visit the food bank on Tuesdays from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The Edon Food Bank’s new location is 201 South Michigan Street, in the old fire station.