Six hundred families! That’s how many neighbors relied on the FISH pantry to provide nutritious food choices for themselves and their loved ones in February. This number reveals a 20% increase in pantry users since January, and a continuing rise in numbers is anticipated as 2025 progresses.
Pantry Director Ellen Simpson definitely knows how to stretch a dollar. Recently, she was able to purchase 19 cases of 24 dozen eggs at a super discount. Eggs are in great demand at the pantry and we hope to offer them twice monthly for the foreseeable future.
Last month’s FISH article explained exactly how FISH manages to keep the shelves and freezers stocked. Thanks to grants awarded and to donations of goods, money and services, everyone leaves the pantry with a well-filled basket. FISH makes a weekly trip to Food Finders in Lafayette, shops at local stores and picks up shared items from Kroger and from Dollar General stores in both Crawfordsville and Darlington. Even so, there are days when there is more space than food on our shelves and in our refrigerator. As the demand grows, we will become more and more reliant on the good will of the community.
Speaking of refrigerators, did you hear that our refrigerator had to be replaced unexpectedly this month? Valero Renewables in Linden stepped forward to award a substantial grant for both the purchase of a new commercial refrigerator and for food. Stan and Clayton Servies of the U-Rent-It-Center donated their time and expertise to deliver and install this vital appliance. FISH counts on businesses like these and on individuals who generously share their time, talent and treasure.
Here’s the FISH March challenge: As spring begins to unfurl its flowers and leaves, many people are planning this year’s vegetable gardens. Won’t you gardeners please plant a little extra and share your bounty with hungry neighbors who’ll enjoy fresh summer produce? Veggies like home grown tomatoes, potatoes, squash, green beans and broccoli are anticipated and relished by those who count on the pantry.
Would you like to help as a FISH supporter? We’re always in need of donations and of volunteers to work at the pantry, drive the van, stock the shelves and collect donations from around the community. If you’d like more information about how to help, call Ellen Simpson at 765-362-3474, follow us on Facebook or write to P. O. Box 261, Crawfordsville IN 47933.
Elaine Chase is co-president of FISH. She contributes a monthly column to the Journal Review.
