Dover-New Phila food pantry hosting open house
DOVER (WJER) (Sept. 13, 2024) – The organization that helped feed over 4,000 local families last year is trying to expand its reach.
The food pantry in downtown Dover is hosting an open house and signup event for new clients on Saturday from 2 to 4 pm. Food Purchaser Jim Rice believes many who could benefit aren’t aware of the pantry.
“We would hope to show them just how we operate, how much food we can give away, and the fact that everyone who is eligible by their income is eligible to come no matter what, no matter where they’re from.”
Those signing up for assistance during Saturday’s open house will be entered into a drawing for prizes including Warther’s cutting boards and gift certificates to area businesses. Treasurer Bill Fritz says clients visit the pantry around 8 times on average.
“We’re open 104 times a year, and there we have no restrictions on how often you can come, so it indicates people use us when they need us. And then every year about a third of the people that come have never come before and a third that did come don’t come back, so it really is a community resource.”
The pantry is at 422 West Third St. in the former Buehler’s grocery story building.
Prospective volunteers are also encouraged to attend Saturday’s open house to learn more about the organization and how it serves those in need.