Al's Outreach Outtakes

I have received request from multiple people asking how things are going at the Food Closet. As a I briefly mentioned in the last article, we have made significant changes to how we serve our neighbors in need.
 
As you likely know, the Holy Trinity Food Closet is set up to be a “shopping style” pantry. You walk through our doors and we look, and act, like a small grocery store. We have shelves organized with a variety of canned, fresh and frozen goods; we even have shopping carts. The benefit to this type of model is that it allows those who come to us to select what foods they would like to have. How much of any item they can receive is driven by how many people are in their families. This approach works well and affords for the greatest amount of dignity in the process. Frankly, our pantry is often used as a model for others to follow.
 
In order to minimize the spread of the virus, while at the same time still serving those in need, all of that has changed now. No one is allowed through the doors except for the volunteers and they wear gloves. All are asked to stay in their car and are communicated with from the recommended distances. Certain staples are prebagged. Where practical, options are provided including type of meat desired; do you want milk, eggs, cereal, personal care items, etc. The first day we did this we served 44 families, the second and third day it was 40. The volunteers worked hard and the families were extremely grateful for the help. They all recognized that times are different for now and appreciate the fact that we found a way to remain open.
 
I expect the demand will remain higher than usual as the need arises for more. With your help and prayers, we intend to be here.