“How does God’s love abide in anyone who has worldly goods, sees a brother or sister in need, and yet refuses to help?” I John 3:17
What is the Pitman Food Pantry?
For fourteen years, the Pitman Pantry, an ecumenical ministry of five local churches, has provided groceries to those in need. Located at the First Baptist Church, the Pitman Pantry serves 50-70 families each week. The majority of these folks live in Pitman, but no one is ever turned away. Each of the five church congregations donate food, money, and volunteer time to the Pantry.
Where’s the Food Come From?
Pitman Food Pantry Collection Cart (in Fellowship Hall)
The Pantry continues to receive food from the Food Bank of South Jersey, which is a tremendous help. However, food items available from them vary greatly, so we still must purchase some basic foods such as cereal, jelly, and tuna. Food donated by our congregations greatly help fill these ongoing needs.
Is it Just Food?
Nope. The Pitman Pantry also accepts donations of personal care items, such as toothpaste and shampoo; and we strive to provide special food for holidays. Recently, our moms received gift bags of personal care items for Mother’s Day. We are grateful to our congregations, and the community for their continuing support.
How Can I Help?
Many volunteer hours are required each week to inventory, order, shop for, stock, pack, and distribute food. We are blessed with dedicated volunteers from each church congregation who give countless hours of their time to support this vital local ministry.
No Vacations for Food Insecurity…
As Summer approaches, and we happily anticipate well deserved vacations, please remember that food insecurity doesn’t take a vacation. Hungry children, who usually receive lunch at school, are home, and come to the Pantry for food.
Donations to the Pantry typically drop dramatically. Pantry volunteers work even harder to provide adequate food to all who ask us for help.
Summer also provides the Pantry with fresh vegetables, as those with gardens share their excess vegetables with us. One of these gardens is of special interest to PUMC. Our Children’s Garden is located at the Broadway entrance to PUMC. Our special thanks to Jack Kostiuk for his leadership with this project.
The volunteers of the Pitman Pantry thank each of you who have supported God’s work here. We are truly blessed. Most importantly, we ask that you continue to pray for this local ecumenical ministry.
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For more info on the Pitman Food Pantry: Pantry
