The Golden Valley Church in Clinton, Missouri, recently hosted their monthly mobile food pantry, serving one of their largest crowds to date—716 people representing 205 families.
The pantry, a partnership between the church and Harvesters Community Food Network, opens on the third Monday of each month. It was initiated by the church’s previous pastor, Alan Harvey, and has been operating since 2015.
Because food services have been considered essential during the pandemic—as well as the reality that families have been struggling even harder to remain food secure during this crisis—the church decided to continue operating the pantry even while weekly church services and many other activities were suspended. Additional safety precautions were added, such as protective masks and gloves for volunteers, and procedures were put in place to limit interaction with clients.
Many expressed appreciation as they received their food, with some even displaying signs to show their gratitude. The Golden Valley Church is blessed by this opportunity to serve so many families and thankful for all of the volunteers—many of whom come from the community—who make it possible.
Kent Dunwoody is pastor of the Kansas City Central and Clinton Golden Valley churches in Missouri.
