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 Matthew 25:40 Executive Director Amy Schmitt counts dwindling stock on the shelves of the organization's food pantry. Since July, Matthew has given out 460 bags of food to local residents and the pantry is now in desperate need of non-perishable food items. Those interested in donating may bring supplies by Matthew's office, located at 432 West Court St. between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and noon, or call 286-9054 to arrange for pickup. [Click to enlarge] |
"We have plenty of canned vegetables," said Schmitt. "Our immediate need is everything else."
Since July 1, Matthew 25:40 has given food assistance to 230 individuals -- that calculates to 460 bags of food for area families who are struggling to make ends meet.
"We were hit hard with food assistance the past two months due to rising gas costs, rising food costs, layoffs, school starting," said Schmitt, who said a reorganization by the DHS food-stamp program has also left many families with a shortage of food. "(With) the change of dates by the Department of Human Services for food stamps, a lot of people had to wait an extra week."
Schmitt said the school system's new dress code has added another hardship for many families.
"(The students) can't wear the clothes they wore last year," said Schmitt. "I'm all for (the dress code) and for kids looking respectful. But when you are living paycheck to paycheck, (the cost) is still something you have to fit in."
Food requested for the pantry includes peanut butter, jelly, tuna, Ramen noodles, Vienna sausage, beef stew, saltine crackers, Pasta Roni products, juice, macaroni and cheese, instant potatoes, Hamburger Helper, spaghetti sauce, instant oatmeal, sugar, flour, powdered milk and cereal.
The pantry is also in need of plastic shopping bags, lotion, shampoo, deodorant and toiletry items for men and women.
Donations may be dropped off between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and noon at Matthew 25:40's office, located at 432 West Court St.
"Or I would be more than happy to come pick it up," said Schmitt.
To arrange for pickup, call 285-9054.
"We are in dire straits," said a Matthew volunteer, helping in the food pantry. "We need everything."
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DYERSBURG/DYER CO......STEP IT UP....YOU KNOW IT'S BAD WHEN ASSISTANCE NEEDS ASSISTANCE.......EVERYONE IS ONLY A COUPLE MONTHS AWAY FROM HOMELESS. IT'S HARD ON EVERYBODY...