WOODSTOCK, Va. (WHSV) – Emmanuel’s Table Food Pantry, sponsored by Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Woodstock, received $3,000 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help increase the variety of its offerings to serve the community .

The donation is part of the “Feeding Our Neighbors” Grant Programwhich supports community food partners in their fight against food insecurity and the promotion of healthier lifestyles through nutrition education initiatives.

Emmanuel’s Table feeds between 25 and 30 families each month, some of whom come from outside Shenandoah County from nearby towns like Front Royal or Harrisonburg. Customers range from one person to families of 12, and many customers are seniors.

Products provided by the pantry are purchased from the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, but because it is not a USDA food pantry, Emmanuel’s Table may have difficulty obtaining items like meats and fresh produce. Church leaders said the money would help increase access to a wider variety of items.

“We coordinate with other churches, individuals throughout the region, the community that supports us, and we come together and say, ‘This is what we have in stock in this room,’ but what’s next? What else do we need to ensure families receive nutritious meals? By addressing immediate hunger needs, we strive to not only nourish our bodies, but also provide hope and dignity within our community. This grant is a critical step in fulfilling our mission to feed our neighbors with care and compassion,” said the Very Rev. Kathleen Murray, rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation was established in 2001 and provides financial support to programs and organizations dedicated to feeding local neighbors in the communities it serves. Since 2001, the foundation has awarded more than $19.6 million in grants.

La Table d’Emmanuel operates on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. It is located at 122 E. Court St. in Woodstock. You can learn more by visiting the Beckford Parish Website.

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