Wellington Food Bank plans to expand hours, hopes to reach more people

The Wellington Food Bank will expand its hours starting in October, hoping to reach a greater number of people who have trouble keeping their cupboards stocked.

“We believe that because of the limited time we are open, this ministry has not been accessible for a significant number of Wellington residents who qualify as being ‘food insecure’,” Zion Lutheran Church pastor Rev. Mark Gabbert. The food bank is a ministry of the church.

The Food Bank still will be open on the first and third Thursdays of the month, but during an October through December trial period, people needing help with food can visit from 2:30 to 5:15 p.m. Previously the food bank was open only two hours per month.

To help facilitate the expanded service hours, Gabbert is asking for volunteer help from Wellington community members, churches and other organizations. He anticipates two shifts with volunteers arriving between 1 and 3:15 p.m. to set up tables and unload food to prepare for the 2:30 p.m. opening. A second shift will arrive at 3:15 p.m. to assist shoppers and clean up. These volunteers will work until 5:30 p.m. and have an opportunity to take extra food home when it is available.

“By expanding our hours beyond the end of the school day and the typical work day, we hope to be able to serve more people,” Gabbert said.

To volunteer or learn more about the Food Bank, contact Mark Gabbert at [email protected] or 970-776-6763.

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