Pantry director: More people are seeking help

JACKSON — The Jackson Food Pantry will be open at 4 p.m. today, Sept. 25, for its regular food distribution. The pantry is housed at the Jackson Department of Public Works building, 10 Don Connor Blvd.

With the economy facing difficult times and more people out of work now than in the recent past, the operators of Jackson's food pantry are trying to keep up with the demand for food.

"Between last month and this month we have about 40 new families who are in need of food," pantry Director Phyllis Lewis said.

A few days prior to each food distribution date, volunteers, in conjunction with the Jackson Women of Today, sort and restock food items that are donated by individuals, organizations, businesses and food banks.

But as demand increases, it has been necessary for Lewis to buy some items that have not been donated to the food pantry.

"A food truck delivery arrived at 9 a.m. two days ago and volunteers helped to offload the pallets, count the cartons and place items that needed to be kept cool in our freezer and refrigerator," she said.

Volunteers also helped to make up shopping bags and to fill the shelves of the food pantry.

Today the pantry will open at 4 p.m., Lewis said. Clients will begin to sign in at 4:15 p.m. and food distribution will begin at 5 p.m. Volunteers will help sign in clients, distribute food and help with shopping carts.

Lewis said donations of plastic bags are always needed at the food pantry.

An open house will be held in October to show the community what the food pantry does.

"With Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas coming up, there are always more people then usual. I don't know what the situation will be this year," she said.

Lewis said nonperishable food may be left in one of the three yellow bins just past the entrance doors at the DPW building. The building is open during regular business hours.

"We are always looking for food," Lewis said.

For more information, visit www.jacksonfoodpantry. com. Lewis may be reached at Phyllislew@optonline.net or call 732- 833-6800 and leave a message. Calls will be returned.