We are excited to announce we are a @faithinplace COVID-19 Food Crisis Relief Fund Grantee! @faithinplace is supporting us to continue our work at the McKinley Pantry at Garden Hills.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the pantry served an average of 25-30 patrons/families representing as many as 200 individuals twice a month (on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays). Since the pandemic started, we have seen patronage nearly double, averaging 45-50 patrons/families each distribution. During the past month alone, the number has increased by 3-5 families each distribution. Some of this growth in need is a result of our outreach to the Hispanic community, many of whom do not qualify for government programs due to their immigration status. We expect this connection to last beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an ongoing need for increased financial support.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, we have had to implement several policies and protocols to ensure the health and safety of our patrons and volunteers. When the school closed to the public in March, we changed or method of delivery to pre-assembled boxes of food designed to last 7 to 10 days. The boxes are distributed to patrons outside of the school facility in a mostly contactless process. Patrons without transportation can bag their food and take what they can carry.
The funds from the @faithinplace COVID-19 Food Crisis Relief Fund helps us to keep up with increased demand brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to sustain our long-standing good work in the Garden Hills neighborhood. We look forward to continuing to ensure everyone in our community has access to food as we build a healthier future together.