JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The exchange of food into the hands of those in need is more frequent these days at Lutheran Social Services of Northeast Florida’s food pantry.
Ronnie Wilson, the food manager, says on average about 1,500 families use the pantry each month.
But since the federal government shutdown began, LSS has served 1,600 families in October so far, and Wilson thinks they could serve close to 1,800 before the month ends.
But they’re running into a huge problem: Supplies are running low.
Wilson said he hasn’t seen the pantry’s shelves this bare in his 11 years with the organization.
“This is the lowest I’ve seen our pantry get,” he said.
Wilson also anticipates even more people coming to the pantry for help if the government shutdown continues and SNAP benefits aren’t sent out next month.
“It’s heartbreaking to know there is such a need in our community,” Wilson said.
Shalarwn Cooper is one of those in the community who gets food from Lutheran Social Services. She calls the food pantry a lifesaver.
“It’s just a great thing they have going,” Cooper said. “If you’re running low or short on food, just a great thing to come get help.”
She said she doesn’t know what she’ll do if she can’t access services at LSS.
To make sure they can still help feed the community, Wilson is asking for donations.
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For those who would like to support the organization’s mission, nonperishable food items can be dropped off at 4615 Philips Highway on Mondays to Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or on Friday from 8 a.m. to noon.
Monetary gifts are also accepted, and can be made at www.lssjax.org/donate.
The organization’s most-needed items include: canned meats, peanut butter, soup, rice, beans, cereal and pasta.
Through Nov. 15, monetary donations will be matched by LSS supporters Hugh Smyrl and Richard Hood, who have pledged to match any gift to LSS, dollar-for-dollar (up to $10,000) with their own gift for Thanksgiving meals.