| Dec. 24, 2015 - Disappointingly, with December waning, there have been very few responses to the December fund drive to the food pantry.
In previous years, the drive has often raised about $6,000.
Please consider making a donation now.
THE CHANGING FACE OF HUNGER
The Hur Herald fundraising drive is on for Calhoun's Food Pantry, operated by Grantsville's First Baptist Church, and sponsored by Calhoun Chaplains Association.
The Herald drive has been conducted annually for several years.
The pantry is supported by about 20 county churches and groups.
The food pantry's manager, Pete Trippett says record numbers are coming to the pantry for a boost, many for the first time.
This past year the pantry assisted 7,958 people, a record number, averaging 664 people a month.
When the pantry has the one-day food giveaway about 200 families are assisted.
The pantry numbers continue to increase with with 5,377 families assisted in 2013.
"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 and paying their utilities," he said.
Trippett said the face of hunger is has been changing.
Figures say 50 million Americans are now living in poverty, many who have lost jobs and can't find new ones.
The average food stamp recipient in West Virginia per person is $119.88 a month.
The latest Kids Count report says that about 33% of Calhoun children are living in poverty (WV average about 25%), a worsening statistic, Calhoun being ranked about 52nd of 55 counties.
A survey released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that West Virginia has seen some of the greatest increase in food insecurity in the past three years.
The USDA report indicates many families are skipping meals, cutting portion sizes, and not eating balanced meals.
"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.
The Hur Herald fundraiser generally raises about $6,000, with every dollar going to food.
A recent survey released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shows that West Virginia has seen some of the greatest increase in food insecurity in the past three years.
You can 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.
The pantry is located at 1500 E. Little Kanawha Highway (just east of Grantsville) and is now open two days a week, Tuesday and Thursday 10-2.
For questions or to donate food items, call Pete Trippett at 304-354-7966.
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