This year was a once again a very hard year due to the continuance of COVID, especially for low-income families. We support two food pantries through time and food donations. Circle of Concern and the Affton Food Pantry is what this grant was dedicated to.
Regarding the Affton Food Pantry we have an individual who drives weekly for their Meals on Wheels Program which provides food and assistance to the hungry.
Regarding Circle of Concern the main food items they prefer from their wish list include soups, cereals, pastas and boxed dinner helpers.
Many people think of Circle of Concern as only a food panty but, they do so much more to help families in need. They offer scholarships for high school, and college. They also offer children’s programs, including funding the cost of summer camp, providing back to school supplies, providing a birthday gift for children under twelve years of age, and providing free or reduced breakfast/lunch programs. Once again, these services are offered to only low-income families that qualify.
Circle did say they are overwhelmed by our council’s continued generosity to our community. Due to safe distancing and changes on local government requirement our council occasionally follows The Circle of Concerns recommendations and orders from their Amazon Wish list for their monthly food donated. Although it slightly reduces the PAL hours, it enables us to meet our commitment to the families in need and provides streamline delivery on their end.
Submitted by Patricia Hawkins and Cyndi Miller