TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
Volunteer Picnic
The Board of Directors of the Merrill Community Food Pantry held their annual volunteer picnic this year on Aug. 24, 2022, at Riverside Park. Everyone who volunteered at the Food Pantry over the last year was invited to attend. “It is our way of thanking the 50 volunteers who make the operation of the Pantry such a success,” said Sister Celine Goessl, co-Director of the Food Pantry.
The Merrill Community Food Pantry was formed in 1983, according to Goessl, and a Board of Directors was created, with members from each of the churches in Merrill. Recently, new members came on board.
Changes to meet the growing need
In early June 2022, the Food Pantry returned to the practice of inviting clients to come inside to choose their own food products. “However, we made some changes in the set-up,” Goessl said. “Clients are now asked to call 715.536.4505 so each one can be given a specific time for this process.”
The Food Pantry has also recently adjusted their eligibility guidelines to enable more individuals and families to qualify to use the Pantry. “These changes were necessary due to dramatic increases in food and gas prices,” she said, noting the changes in the economy are making things very challenging for many in our area.
“Since June, we have signed up 59 new clients,” Goessl said.
To get a copy of the new guidelines, simply call the Merrill Community Food Pantry at 715.536.4505.
Volunteers needed and donations appreciated
As a result of the increased need and increased use of the Food Pantry, more volunteers are needed. “We presently have 50 volunteers but need more with this increase,” she said. “Please contact us at the above phone number if you wish to volunteer once or twice a month.”
Currently, the Food Pantry is meeting the need in the area, however, Goessl foresees challenges ahead.
“People in Merrill have been generous in donating food from their gardens, especially during the summer months,” she said. Donations of produce and pantry staples are always appreciated.
“We often receive inquiries as to what staples are most needed,” Goessl said. “At this time, we need rice, meat, noodles, cream soups, and fresh vegetables and fruits.”
The Food Pantry is also grateful for monetary donations, because foods they used to be able to get for free or low-cost from Feeding America have now doubled in price.
“This does not have an immediate impact, because people in the past have been very generous with monetary contributions, but within the next year, it may become a concern,” she said. “The generosity of the people of Merrill and surrounding area have made it possible for us to continue with the same service, even as we have to deal with substantial difficulties.”
“The Post Office collections, the Boy/Girl Scout collections, and the Fill the Gazebo event have been a tremendous aid,” Goessl said. “Through the local community, we have been able to serve those in need. Thank you for your generosity!”
Merrill Food Pantry updates
TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
Volunteer Picnic
The Board of Directors of the Merrill Community Food Pantry held their annual volunteer picnic this year on Aug. 24, 2022, at Riverside Park. Everyone who volunteered at the Food Pantry over the last year was invited to attend. “It is our way of thanking the 50 volunteers who make the operation of the Pantry such a success,” said Sister Celine Goessl, co-Director of the Food Pantry.
The Merrill Community Food Pantry was formed in 1983, according to Goessl, and a Board of Directors was created, with members from each of the churches in Merrill. Recently, new members came on board.
Changes to meet the growing need
In early June 2022, the Food Pantry returned to the practice of inviting clients to come inside to choose their own food products. “However, we made some changes in the set-up,” Goessl said. “Clients are now asked to call 715.536.4505 so each one can be given a specific time for this process.”
The Food Pantry has also recently adjusted their eligibility guidelines to enable more individuals and families to qualify to use the Pantry. “These changes were necessary due to dramatic increases in food and gas prices,” she said, noting the changes in the economy are making things very challenging for many in our area.
“Since June, we have signed up 59 new clients,” Goessl said.
To get a copy of the new guidelines, simply call the Merrill Community Food Pantry at 715.536.4505.
Volunteers needed and donations appreciated
As a result of the increased need and increased use of the Food Pantry, more volunteers are needed. “We presently have 50 volunteers but need more with this increase,” she said. “Please contact us at the above phone number if you wish to volunteer once or twice a month.”
Currently, the Food Pantry is meeting the need in the area, however, Goessl foresees challenges ahead.
“People in Merrill have been generous in donating food from their gardens, especially during the summer months,” she said. Donations of produce and pantry staples are always appreciated.
“We often receive inquiries as to what staples are most needed,” Goessl said. “At this time, we need rice, meat, noodles, cream soups, and fresh vegetables and fruits.”
The Food Pantry is also grateful for monetary donations, because foods they used to be able to get for free or low-cost from Feeding America have now doubled in price.
“This does not have an immediate impact, because people in the past have been very generous with monetary contributions, but within the next year, it may become a concern,” she said. “The generosity of the people of Merrill and surrounding area have made it possible for us to continue with the same service, even as we have to deal with substantial difficulties.”
“The Post Office collections, the Boy/Girl Scout collections, and the Fill the Gazebo event have been a tremendous aid,” Goessl said. “Through the local community, we have been able to serve those in need. Thank you for your generosity!”