For 10 years, the Manheim Central Food Pantry has been serving the community from its location at 334 W. Gramby St., and the organization could use your help.

"The number of clients has increased in recent months," shared Cathy Knittle, chairperson of the pantry. "In April, we had 153 households for a total of 466 individuals served. However, donations have decreased in recent months."

Knittle noted that the pantry will accept a variety of donations. "Some items especially needed at this time are Spam, canned pineapples, crackers, cereal, egg noodles, pork and beans and rice/pasta sides," she stated. Donations may be dropped off at the pantry on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. or placed in the box on the porch any time. Monetary donations will also be accepted; to learn where to send donations, visit https://manheimcentralfoodpantry.org.

Knittle thanked the Manheim Post Office for its recent food collection, and she credits other organizations in the community with helping the food pantry continue its mission. In May, members of the youth group at East Fairview Church of the Brethren put down mulch around the property. Along with food donations from the community, the pantry received freezers that were donated by the Manheim Rotary Club, and arrangements have been made with local farmers and grocery stores as well as the Manheim Farm Show to keep the pantry stocked with meat. In addition to food, the pantry offers personal care items such as toilet paper, shampoo and soap.

Clients must live in the Manheim Central School District and must complete a self-declaration annually, listing their income and the number of people in their household.

More information, including a complete list of donation needs, may be found at https://manheimcentralfoodpantry.org. Volunteers are also needed at the pantry. To volunteer or to register as a client, call 717-664-1097.