Even just one day a week, WEEOC food pantry does brisk business

Clients who are used to visiting the Western Egyptian food pantry on Washington Street on either Tuesdays or Thursdays seem to have adjusted to the pantry's now once-a-week status.

To limit the exposure for both clients and food pantry volunteers to the novel coronavirus, the WEEOC pantry is now operating from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursdays only. Clients drive up and do not get out of their cars.

Ashley Greer, the outreach specialist at WEEOC, said last week the agency helped 101 families with food on Thursday, April 2.

"We depleted our shelves significantly," she said. "I am blessed that we can help so many people at his time, and I want to highlight the good this is doing in our area."

In "normal" times, Greer said, they would get about 40 people at the twice-weekly pantries.

Greer offers a heartfelt thank you to businesses and individuals who are donating to WEEOC.

She said more food donations are always needed.

When we donate, Greer said, "We are helping are neighbors and friends.

"We might not see it or know it, but we are helping to boost our community in this time of need," she added. "The people who come through are so thankful for what they are able to receive."

Besides the weekly food pantries, the WEEOC will continue to hold its monthly Mobile Markets. The next one is at 11 a.m. on April 27.