RIBBON A ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the Archbold FISH Pantry The event was attended by Archbold FISH Pantry workers members of the Archbold Chamber of Commerce and Archbold Mayor Brad Grime
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Archbold FISH Pantry celebrated a ribbon cutting with the Archbold Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, February 15th. The Pantry is located at 1309 South Defiance Street.
The FISH Pantry got its start in 1984 when three women, who had been in Bible study together, decided to put their faith into practice.
With the help of the Archbold Area Ministerial Association, other individuals, other churches, and businesses in the community, the organization was able to be started and grow to where it is today.
Archbold FISH began with just a phone line set up to help people with rent, utilities, gasoline, and prescriptions.
As time passed, the need for a food pantry became more and more apparent. This component of the organization saw its beginning in 1993 in order to help the “working poor” and those in crisis situations.
Today, the organization serves around 58 households a month, equating to around 115 people. The organization is a 501©3 non-profit and is overseen by 10 board of directors. Day-to-day operations are overseen by the pantry coordinator, Jennifer Martin.
Jennifer is very passionate about her work with the pantry and is eager to help anyone who needs help. “I run FISH like a ministry and a ministry doesn’t stop. It runs 24 hours,” said Jennifer. Jennifer also stated that volunteers are always welcome. “There’s no such thing as too many volunteers.”
With the FISH Pantry being in operation for so long, this ribbon-cutting celebration was for the organization’s new membership to the Archbold Chamber of Commerce, and for its new building renovations.
The building has received updates to the siding, new windows, a sliding entrance door, a new roof, work to the inside walls, and lighting/electrical.
Families who qualify for the food pantry are able to shop once a month on one of two designated days. These days are the 2nd Tuesday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and the 3rd Tuesday of the month from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Families in need or who are currently facing a crisis situation can call 419-445-0366 to find out If they are eligible. Additionally, financial advice and other assistance measures may also be available for families.
Donations are also accepted with drop-off times being Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The pantry is completely reliant on donations from the community, and every bit helps.