Food Pantry serves the community

By Rose Sgarlato
Sparta — Sparta Ecumenical Food Pantry recently held its annual event where over 800 families in need receive holiday food baskets.

On a weekly basis and for over 20 years the Sparta Ecumenical(SEC) Food Pantry, located inside the First Presbyterian Church of Sparta, has been providing food for local Sussex County families.

During the holiday season, a Christmas meal is given to each family to be taken home and cooked during their holiday gatherings. The basket contains a choice of a turkey, ham or chicken along with stuffing, vegetables, potatoes, fruit and bread.

“New to the mix this year was the addition of pet food. Also the food pantry works closely with The First Presbyterian Church, so that the pantry clients can also receive toys,” said volunteer Valerie Macchio.

People signed up ahead of time and came out over a three-day period last week to get their meals. All of the food received is either donated or purchased by SEFC using donated funds.

“This is my second year doing it, and it is running even more smoothly. We are better organized,” said volunteer Deb Harkness.

“This year, The SEC food pantry had approximately 805 families signed up including adults and children feeding 2560 individuals just for Christmas," said Macchio.

The toy drive was equally successful during which volunteers prepped for 1100 children to receive toys. By day two of last week of the event, 700 children had been given new toys.

“We are happy with the way it’s going,” said Joe Young, Missions Council Chairperson at Sparta First Presbyterian. “The numbers are what we expected.”

Although it did rain the second day of the give-away, the unusually warm December weather was a plus.

“When we have snow, people can’t get here,” said volunteer Helen Reigstad. “So we are running high. Yesterday we serviced 370 people and today is only the second day."

Macchio is grateful to many volunteers and local businesses, churches, and area organizations for their contributions.

“Thanks to the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, Kiwanis, Hilltop Country Day School we are again able to reach out and help so many people during this season of giving,” she said.

Sparta Ecumenical Food Pantry is located at First Presbyterian Church of Sparta at 32 Main St. The pantry is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 am to noon, and Wednesday from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Anyone in need is invited to the pantry to receive food. Donations are always welcomed during pantry hours. For more information contact the pantry administrator Donna Iozzino at 973-729-6197 or visit www.spartaumc.org/sparta-ecumenical-council-and-community-events.