The Chippewa Valley Post provides news of area nonprofit organizations in order to increase public awareness of their missions and activities, and to provide information that otherwise might not be made available.
Our “6 of Substance” series is part of this effort. It will present answers from nonprofit organizations, in their own words, to six questions we asked about who they are and what they do. The responses will be edited only for length, grammar and style concerns.
This series will be updated regularly to introduce Chippewa Valley residents to the many nonprofit organizations and people working to serve the needs of our area. If you have a favorite nonprofit organization that you’d like to see featured here, please let us know at cvpostwi@gmail.com.
Trinity Lutheran Food Pantry
Who do you serve?
We serve those who need food and are hungry within Eau Claire and Chippewa Counties, within a 30-mile radius. The pantry is open four times a week and is the only pantry to offer evening hours. We find those coming to the evening pantry are the working poor, making minimum wage, stopping in after work on their way home. We serve between 700 and 800 families a month.
How long have you been established in the Chippewa Valley?
Trinity Lutheran Church gave food out of a corner office closet starting about 15 years ago. Today, we have expanded and have a designated food pantry at Trinity with access just inside Door 4.
What are the major issues you will be facing over the next 18 months?
The increase in need of food and the ability to serve special needs. For example, food specifically for those with diabetes or who are gluten intolerant. Also, we now need diapers and feminine products for women and the elderly.
Aside from financial support, how can the Chippewa Valley Community support you?
Product donations for the items we’re unable to purchase from Feed My People; also, diapers, feminine products and underwear protection for the elderly. The senior population coming to the pantry increased 32% over the preceding year, so we need to adapt to their needs.
Who are some of the key people in your organization?
Our volunteers are the key people making our food pantry operate. In order to operate Trinity’s food pantry, we need between 60-65 volunteers a month. Fortunately, Trinity’s members are filling this need.
What is the most important thing about your organization that people should know, but don’t?
We recently set up bags specifically for the homeless and those living in motels. These bags have paper plates, bowls, cups, utensils, a can opener and food that doesn’t require cooking. These guests can also select food from the pantry, e.g., dairy, bread, fruit, etc. Our Food Pantry is open to anyone in need of food. Our intake application does not require any financial information. Everyone is welcome and we treat everyone with respect and dignity.
— by Sharry Hebert, Food Pantry Coordinator
If you would like more information about the Trinity Lutheran Food Pantry, visit www.trinity-ec.org.
To download a copy of the “6 of Substance” questionnaire, click here.
To see earlier “6 of Substance” listings, click here for the Archives.