St. Paul’s Food Pantry is about to celebrate our 12th year of service to the community! When I started this journey more than a decade ago, I was focused on what I could do for the church and the community. I had no idea just how much this mission would bring to me personally. I tend to be a bit shy around those outside of my family and friends, and I don’t often step outside of that comfort zone. I’m known for my love of organization and my ability to whip things into shape (not literally whip, but you know what I mean). Family and friends often tease me about this. When Pastor Val Garron approached me more than a decade ago, my fingers tingled. I couldn’t help myself, so I took a chance and I am so happy that I did.
Today, St. Paul’s Food Pantry distributes food twice a month. We have a wonderful group of volunteers, and we’d be lost without them. During the height of the pandemic, we had to pivot to food deliveries and distribution outdoors. Our volunteers are quick to do whatever is needed, including braving the elements and sharing smiles and kind words with the folks we serve. They really embody the spirit of our mission – to share God’s love through service. Never has such care and kindness been more needed. There are amazing people in our church family, and I’m better for knowing them.
The growth we were able to achieve in our food pantry put St. Paul’s in the spotlight. This past Spring, the CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey invited me to join their Board as a representative of the food pantries in Gloucester County. It was time for me to take another chance and stretch a bit further outside my comfort zone. With support and encouragement from my friends and family (including my church family), I accepted the invitation. The Board members are warm, welcoming, and invested in serving the communities of South Jersey as best as possible. I’m proud to represent our church and food pantry.
Finally, I would like to recognize all of the members of the church for your time, your donations of food, your financial support, and your encouragement. Your contributions are vital to the support St. Paul’s Food Pantry provides to this community. On behalf of the pantry and the people we serve, thank you and may God bless you.
Carol Strock
Food Pantry Coordinator