Hunger Doesn't Take A Summer Vacation
Wheeling Township demonstrates its dedication to residents in many ways, including one of the most basic human needs - by ensuring that no one goes hungry. Higher food prices, coupled with fewer donations through the summer months, cause the Wheeling Township Food Pantry to be in serious need of food and personal essential items to refill the shelves. The Township is asking for the community's help so the needs of residents experiencing financial challenges can be met during the summer season.
"Hunger doesn't take a summer vacation," said Wheeling Township Supervisor Kathleen Penner. "Our first responsibility is to make sure residents have the resources, services and support they need, and access to food is one of the most critical. I know our residents will come through for us."
For community members wishing to make a difference, food donations are welcomed and appreciated, and especially important right now due to low supplies. Current non-perishable food donation requests include:
Baking products (cake mixes, flour, sugar, etc.)
Beans (white northern, cannellini or kidney)
Beverages (coffee, juice, tea)
Canned fish (tuna, salmon)
Cereal (any type)
Condiments (ketchup, mayo, mustard, salad dressing)
Fruit (apple sauce, canned peaches/pears/pineapple)
Jelly and jam
Meat products (beef stew, canned chicken/ham, corned beef hash)
Pancake mixes and syrup
Pasta and pasta sauces
Potatoes (instant mashed, au gratin, four cheese, scalloped)
Snacks (cookies, fruit snacks, treats)
Personal essentials, such as paper towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner, feminine hygiene products, diapers (child/adult), wipes and cleaning products are also presently at critically low levels. Only food items can be purchased with SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits; personal essentials cannot.
During the summer months, the Township's "Giving Garden" program also gratefully welcomes fresh produce from local gardeners as they reap the benefits of their gardening. Items need not be washed, but the Township asks that residents remove any loose dirt. Fresh produce is a welcome addition for the many individuals who use the Food Pantry.
Non-perishable food items, personal essentials and fresh vegetables and fruits can be donated Monday through Thursday between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. If individuals prefer to make a financial donation to help, checks should be made payable to the Wheeling Township Emergency Fund, Inc., which is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
"We are so thankful to all of our neighbors who remain steadfast in helping their neighbors in need," Penner said. "It is inspiring to see what can happen when people come together to help solve a problem."
The Wheeling Township Food Pantry opened 54 years ago. Over the last year, 9,814 residents were fed - and 2,167 of those individuals were children. For more information about the Food Pantry, please email GA@wheelingtownship.com.
Wheeling Township continues to make a significant difference in the community - as it has since 1850.