| The Hur Herald conducted a fund-raiser for the Calhoun Food Pantry in November. Readers contributed $1525.
The pantry's long-time manager, Pete Trippett said,
"This year we had a real out-pouring of donated food from the community. The entire operation depends on community support, and we're very grateful to those who gave us a boost," he said.
Last month the pantry served 286 families, numbers that are ever increasing.
Calhoun's Community Food Pantry is operated by the First Baptist Church in Grantsville, and is supported by about 20 county churches and 20 county groups.
As the economy continues to falter and unemployment rolls increase, Trippett says the face of hunger is changing.
Trippett said the pantry had 3,100 visits during the last year, averaging 257 requests monthly.
The pantry fills the gaps, particularly for the working poor and the unemployed.
"Most people in Calhoun don't want to ask for help," Trippett said, "Too much pride, but lots of new people are coming for the first time. They're up against the wall."
"We don't put a bunch of strings or requirements on who gets the food," Trippett said, who has been issuing items since 1992.
"We trust that people will not abuse the help the community is providing... Most people pull together to help one another," he said.
You can still help the pantry, by making a check to First Baptist Church, be sure to note HERALD FOOD DRIVE on the check, and mail it to First Baptist Church, PO Box 237, Grantsville WV 26147.
For questions, to donate food items, or requests for food, call Pete Trippett at 304-354-7966.
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