Roselawn, Ind., has a thriving food pantry because five couples from Community Christian Reformed Church in Roselawn responded to a challenge to serve.
The group discovered that the town’s small library building was being vacated. They began renting the building in October 2006 and after a busy month of cleaning and renovating, opened the pantry that November.
The group wanted to empower people by having them shop as in a grocery store, choosing their products.
The community of Roselawn enthusiastically supports the food pantry with cash and food donations. Unlike many food pantries, this one is able to offer milk, eggs, meat, and produce.
On Dec. 8, 2007, a local IGA grocery store helped raise more than $1,000 for the pantry with store coupons that gave 10 percent back to the pantry. It also set up a trailer outside the store that day for cash and food donations.
Each month about 15 volunteers serve 80 to 85 families. A volunteer “shopper” goes with each client to reach groceries and build encouraging relationships.
Thriesa Hubers, one of the original group members, said, “It’s been a delight serving the community and watching the community begin to own the project.”
About the Author
Ruth Moblard DeYoung, a former Banner news correspondent and teacher, writes children's books. She is a member of Hope Christian Reformed Church in Oak Forest, Ill.
