For many years Charles and Mae Mays operated a Food Bank in Scott County, using a small space in the basement of what was once the sheriff’s office. However, due to age and poor health, they had to close in 2010. Morgan-Scott Executive Director Ella Smith and Scott Homeless Shelter Director Jerry Voiles considered the needs of this depressed area and decided that this was unacceptable. They decided to reopen the Food Pantry in the old Capital School Building (the same building as is now used for the Homeless Shelter).
Ella and a youth group from LaGrange, Ill cleaned up several rooms and set up the Pantry at the shelter. Jerry manages the Pantry, and Kathy Rose, Director of the Scott County Office of Aging, registers the clients and, along with volunteers from the community, distributes food every Tuesday.
Second Harvest of Knoxville picks up food from big box stores such as Wal-Mart, Sam’s, Food City, and Kroger’s and delivers about 1500 lbs. each week. This is food that is near its expiration date and includes fresh vegetables, meat and bread. Several churches and individuals have donated refrigerators and freezers. So far, we have not had to purchase any food.
The Food Pantry opened March 29th and served 58 families the first week. The number of families served has increased each week. The last week of April, they served over 200 families.
It took a lot of hard work and good will from individuals, faith-based organizations and corporations to make this happen. Thanks to Ella, Jerry, and all of those involved for seeing the need and making it happen. Thanks also to Charles and Mae Mays for their years of dedication to the forerunner of this Food Pantry. The community is a better place due to your vision and hard work.
Article by Ray Boles
