Mercer's New Haven: A Beacon of Hope for the Food Insecure
In a heartwarming display of community collaboration, the Mercer County food pantry and Bethany Presbyterian Church have joined forces to establish "The Haven," a new food pantry in the heart of Mercer. This initiative aims to address the pressing issue of food insecurity, providing a much-needed resource for those in need within the borough.
Nourishing the Community: The Haven's Mission Unveiled
Filling a Vital Gap
The opening of The Haven marks a significant milestone for Mercer, as it represents the first food pantry within the borough since the closure of Loaves and Fishes two years ago. This new endeavor, over seven months in the making, has involved extensive preparations, including clearing the garage space, adding heating, cooling, and insulation, and installing ample shelving to accommodate a wide range of food items.
Accessible Assistance
The Haven's strategic decision to operate on the fourth Saturday of every month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. is a deliberate move to cater to the needs of working individuals and families who may not have access to traditional food pantry hours. This innovative approach ensures that those facing food insecurity can conveniently obtain the essential shelf-stable foods, freezer products, and refrigeration items they require.
A Successful Debut
The Haven's official ribbon-cutting ceremony and inaugural opening on a recent Saturday saw an impressive turnout, with the pantry serving 43 households, representing over 100 individuals. This promising start underscores the community's eagerness to access the much-needed services provided by The Haven.
Expanding the Reach of the Mercer County Food Bank
The establishment of The Haven aligns with the Mercer County Food Bank's broader efforts to expand its network of distribution sites. With 30 locations now available for food pickup, the food bank aims to increase its reach and impact, having served over 2 million meals to more than 42,000 families last year.
Eligibility and Requirements
To receive assistance from The Haven, individuals must reside within the Mercer Area School District and complete the American Food Assistance form for the federal government. While income requirements are in place, they are based on self-declarations, without the need for extensive verification.
Accessing the Nearest Pantry
For those in need of food assistance, the Mercer County Food Bank's website, mercercountyfoodbank.org/gethelp, provides a comprehensive resource to locate the closest pantry, ensuring that no one is left behind in the community's collective effort to combat food insecurity.The establishment of The Haven in Mercer represents a significant step forward in addressing the pressing issue of food insecurity within the borough. Through the collaborative efforts of the Mercer County food pantry and Bethany Presbyterian Church, this new initiative promises to be a beacon of hope, providing nourishment and support to those in need, and strengthening the resilience of the Mercer community as a whole.
