Community steps up for the Pantry

The McCook Pantry shelves are no longer in danger of becoming bare! Thanks to an overwhelming response from McCook, Culbertson, Indianola and other area communities, thousands of pounds of non-perishable food have been donated to the organization which provides food free of charge to people in need.

"It's been wonderful," said Dorothy Henton, the coordinator of the McCook Pantry. "Boy Scouts in McCook, Culbertson and Indianola collected over 4,000 pounds of food, and many food items were brought to the Pantry Saturday."

Even after the major drive, gifts of food and money are still coming in, with Mrs. Henton reporting a gift of $250 cash from Parker-Hannifin early this week, along with a number of food products. More food is on the way, as SunMart will be donating a large amount of products Thursday.

"We don't have it all put away yet," Mrs. Henton said, "but we will soon." The Pantry coordinator is especially appreciative for the help from Work Camp crews. "They helped Saturday when all the food was coming in, and they were back Monday to lend a hand."

The Pantry is a year-around service. Food is available for those in need five days a week: from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals and families can get food from the McCook Pantry once per month. Social Security cards are required for identification.

Mrs. Henton and Bob Hardy gave thanks to a number of people for helping make the food drive a success. "The Gazette articles really helped. Many people who gave said they were inspired by Connie Jo Discoe's writing and photography."

She also gave credit to Jim Hamill, who sent out the letter alerting McCook area residents about the need for food gifts. Best wishes go out to Jim, who is now hospitalized following back surgery.

Hardy, a volunteer, said he is impressed with all the people who assist with the Pantry program. The effort is led by Mrs. Henton, the coordinator; Merlin Smith, vice president; and Ivan Hunt, treasurer. Among the many others who helped with the drive were Janet Fletcher, Jean Hardy and Michelle Ray. A helping hand was also given by Marisa Esch, 10. "She worked like a trooper," Hardy said.

In a drive this successful, others need to be honored. If you know of helpers deserving recognition, let us know about them in an Open Forum letter.

As important as the volunteers are, their outreach would be limited without the support of people in the McCook area. In a time of need, the people stepped up in a big way ... and they deserve our gratitude for doing so.