Food Pantry FAQ

Video about the CFUMC Food Pantry

Q: When is our food pantry open?

A: Our food pantry is open each Wednesday from 9:00 am until 11:00 am.

Q: Whom do we serve?

A: We happily serve anyone who is hungry or needs food. We have some clients who come in at the end of the month when there is no more money left for food. Some clients have been laid off and are between jobs. Others may have unexpected medical bills and need help with groceries.

Q: From where does the food come?

A: We receive food donations on a regular basis from Sunday School classes, scout troops and members of our congregation. In addition we hold food drives at the church on a quarterly or as needed basis and receive food from food drives held at our Preschool and other community agencies.

We also are supported monetarily by the United Methodist Women, as well as the Faithful Fellowship, Sorta 50’s and Circle of Friends Sunday School Classes.

CFUMC is a partner with the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The Atlanta Community Food Bank currently distributes almost 2 million pounds of food and other donated grocery items monthly to its partner agencies. We are able to purchase food from the Atlanta Community Food Bank at a very low cost.

Q: Why should I purchase food for the food pantry from the store if we can get it at a much lower price at Atlanta Food Bank?

A: A typical grocery bag is filled with cans of vegetables, soup, tuna or chicken, rice, dried or canned beans, canned fruit, peanut butter, macaroni & cheese, crackers, spaghetti sauce and pasta, cereal and a dessert. While it is advantageous for us to order and receive food from the ACFB, many times they do not have these items in stock. When this happens, we rely solely on our donated items and use donated funds to fill in with purchases at grocery stores.

Q: How does our food pantry operate?

A: Our food pantry operates with the help of our wonderful volunteers who show up each week. On Sundays and Tuesdays, volunteers fill 70-80 grocery bags; on Mondays and Wednesdays, volunteers pick up bread and bakery items from BJ’s and two local Publix stores; on Fridays, volunteers stock the food pantry and on Wednesdays, volunteers help our clients sign in and carry food to their cars. In addition, we have volunteers who drive to the ACFB to pick up food and unload the van.

Q: How can I help?

A: You can help in two ways - by donating and/or by volunteering. Donations can be non-perishable food items that are currently in date or monetary funds. Food items may be brought to the church during business hours. Monetary items may be given or mailed to the church office. To vilunteer ot ask any questions, contact Stacey Gravitt in the church office.