The mission of the Manheim Central Food Pantry is straightforward: "To help alleviate hunger by increasing access to food for people in our community at no cost in a caring and respectful manner." To meet this goal, the pantry relies on a team of volunteers and efforts from outside organizations.

Recently, members of the Manheim Central High School football team mulched the flowerbeds at the pantry, located at 334 W. Gamby St. It's just one way community groups can support the food pantry.

"Food drives can be organized by workplaces, schools, churches, businesses, civic groups and clubs, or, for a special event, suggest attendees bring a canned food item," shared Cathy Knittle, president of the Manheim Central Food Pantry board. "One example is that on Aug. 5, National Night Out, the police department will hold a 'stuff a cruiser with food for the pantry' event. Spreading the word about food insecurity and the need for support is important."

The pantry currently serves about 160 households a month, providing food for approximately 480 people. The need for the pantry is growing, said Knittle, who noted that new households are registering for the pantry's services each month. When the pantry first opened more than a decade ago, it served about 60 households monthly. The organization is a supplemental food choice pantry, and services are available to families and individuals residing in Manheim Central School District.

The Manheim Central Food Pantry operated for many years out of the basement of a local church. In 2012, it relocated to its current location, the former parsonage of Salem United Methodist Church, where it was able to increase inventory to better serve clients. The organization is a member of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in Harrisburg, and clients can pick up everything from canned goods to milk, eggs and meat, in addition to personal-care items such as toilet paper, paper towels and tissues.

Knittle emphasized that she is part of a 13-person team of board members, who, along with additional volunteers, ensure the pantry operates successfully.

"We are a caring, friendly group of volunteers and treat others with dignity and respect for their confidentiality," she said.

Community members can support the pantry's efforts by donating food or providing financial contributions. A box is located on the pantry's porch to accept donations of anything nonperishable, and fresh vegetables from local gardens are always appreciated. To donate perishable items, visit the pantry on Mondays or Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Currently, the pantry needs cereal, beef stew, Spam, crackers, canned fruit (especially pineapple), egg noodles, toothpaste and shampoo.

To learn more, call the food pantry office at 717-664-1097, search for "Manheim Central Food Pantry" on Facebook or visit https://manheimcentralfoodpantry.org.