| THANKS FOR THE HELPING HAND
The Hur Herald December fundraiser for Calhoun's Food Pantry raised $5,650, with every dime going toward the purchase and distribution to needy families.
The pantry is located at Grantsville's First Baptist Church, sponsored by Calhoun Chaplains Association and is supported by about 20 county churches and groups.
Pantry manager Pete Trippett says he's grateful to the individuals and groups who donated to the drive, some very generously. Trippett has manned the operation since 1992.
Last year, Calhoun residents visited the pantry 5,377 times for food, compared to the previous year's 4,298 visits.
"Many of people who are coming don't want to use the service," Trippett said, "the unemployed, the working poor, the old and the young."
"Lots of them are struggling with unemployment, the high cost of food, gasoline and paying their utilities," he said.
Trippett said the face of hunger is changing.
"The entire Calhoun Food Pantry operation depends on community support, and we're grateful to those who give us a boost," said Pete Trippett, who has managed the operation since 1992.
"Community folks and church groups have generously helped," Trippett said, "but we're always facing new challenges."
"The food pantry doesn't put a bunch of strings or requirements on who gets the food," Trippett said.
Last year, the Hur Herald fundraiser netted $3,500.
A recent survey released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that West Virginia has increased food insecurity in the past three years.
The USDA report indicates more families are skipping meals, cutting portion sizes, and not eating balanced meals.
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