Can a food pantry Thrive and Survive in 2023 when faced with increased needs, costs, supply chain disruptions, aging and tired volunteers? Manna on Meridian entering its 14th year, answers that question “YES”. But that “yes” will take help from all of us.
In pre- Covid 2020, Manna, monthly: served approximately 130 families; received donations of $4000; purchased food at $3500. In 2022 Manna monthly served approximately 260 families per month; donations remained $4000; food costs increased to $7500 per month. The financial cushion built when church members donated stimulus checks during Covid started to disappear. What now?
A suggestion that Manna limit the number of families is unacceptable. Manna churches have diverse theologies but a common mission unites Manna churches: providing food to those who need it. Manna began cost cutting: more careful but time-consuming price shopping, eliminating less popular items, limiting produce that is distributed. Manna church members (that is you) are asked to increase your donations to Manna. Perhaps your $20 three times a year can become $20 five times a year. One box of cereal or one tube of toothpaste can become two – it all makes a difference.
In addition, Second Harvest and Manna may have found a way to partner without harming Manna’s objective of no intrusive personal data collection or income eligibility limitations. In this partnership, Manna can purchase canned goods at about 19 cents a can. Produce and bread will be free. This would be a major cost savings. Volunteering with a part of Manna also adds to Manna’s ability to thrive. Watch for opportunities on the UUCT Facebook Share page or email manna@uutallahassee.org and I will put you on my Manna list.
The representative from Second Harvest, upon hearing that Manna serves 280 families a month using a volunteer work force and purchasing food with donated dollars and offering donated goods said: “Manna is a blessing that this community needs”. Please, make it so.