“I love the Food Pantry! If I could give it a 10-star review, I would,” shared one of the 230 Food Pantry visitors who stopped by the new pantry on opening day. “Set up like a grocery store, the Food Pantry further strengthens the agency’s commitment to helping those in need by providing not just sustenance but also fostering a welcoming environment that promotes dignity and personal connections,” explains Tracy Eubanks, CEO of Metrocrest Services. “This significant milestone marks a pivotal moment in the organization’s history as it endeavors to serve even more families and create lasting positive impacts in the Metrocrest community.”

From Drive-Thru to In-Person:
Since its inception, Metrocrest Services has been a steadfast pillar of support for families facing food insecurity in the region. From the pantry’s opening in 1986 until March 2020, Food Pantry customers enjoyed shopping in person, selecting the right items for their families. Then, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Metrocrest Services was forced to transition to a drive-thru food distribution method. “Not only was the transition to a drive-thru pantry necessary for the safety of our volunteers, staff, and pantry visitors, but the number of residents needing food assistance increased exponentially. Our old in-person pantry couldn’t handle the influx of customers,” explained Eubanks. “Over the past three years, the drive-thru pantry has been crucial in distributing food to approximately 1,000 families weekly. However, the organization recognized that the drive-thru setup lacked the personal touch and community connection that an in-person pantry could offer, and we are so excited that our new home offers the opportunity for us to return to our roots.”

The In-Person Pantry Experience:
The newly opened in-person food pantry now offers a warm and inviting space where individuals and families can engage with volunteers, staff, and fellow community members. This approach not only ensures the efficient distribution of food but also fosters an environment of support, compassion, and personal connection.

Upon arrival, families are greeted with smiles and a sense of belonging. They can interact with dedicated volunteers and staff members who are eager to assist them in selecting nutritious food items that suit their dietary preferences and specific needs. This personalized approach helps individuals maintain their dignity while receiving the vital support they require. In addition, because visitors are only selecting the items they need, it reduces food waste.

Pantry visitors love the in-person shopping experience sharing praises such as:

“I’m loving the Food Pantry! This way, I’m not wasting any food and taking just what I need.”

“I didn’t know there were purple potatoes. I’m excited to mix all the potatoes together for a pot roast.”

Expanded Services and Resources:
The transition to an in-person food pantry also allows Metrocrest Services to offer a more comprehensive range of resources to address the multifaceted needs of the community. In addition to providing nourishing food, visitors can talk to staff about additional support services, including employment coaching & job readiness, financial education, senior services, and emergency financial assistance.

“By embracing this holistic approach, Metrocrest Services seeks to empower families with the necessary tools and resources to break the cycle of poverty and achieve long-term self-sufficiency. The in-person pantry acts as a hub of support, enabling individuals to connect with a network of compassionate professionals and community members who genuinely care about their well-being,” shares Eubanks.

Community Involvement and Collaboration:
The successful launch of the in-person food pantry would not have been possible without the unwavering support and collaboration of volunteers, donors, and community partners. Metrocrest Services has always relied on the generosity of individuals and organizations to fulfill its mission, and the return to an in-person pantry model further highlights the importance of community involvement.

The pantry provides a platform for individuals and groups to contribute not just in terms of donations but also through volunteer efforts. By engaging with the community directly, volunteers witness the profound impact of their contributions firsthand and establish connections that extend far beyond the food pantry’s walls. “We have an urgent need for volunteers to work in the pantry from 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday,” shares Lori Rains, Metrocrest Services’ Volunteer Manager. To learn more about volunteering in the pantry, click here.

PLEASE NOTE: Portions of the building are still under construction. At this time, the Food Pantry is only open to Food Pantry customers, staff, and volunteers. All other services are available virtually or over the phone until further notice.