Bellevue Food Pantry Expands to Serve Growing Need in the Community

The Bellevue Food Pantry, a vital resource for those facing food insecurity in the area, is embarking on an exciting new chapter. After outgrowing its current location, the pantry has secured a larger facility that will allow it to expand its operations and better serve the community. This move marks a significant milestone in the organization's efforts to combat hunger and provide essential support to those in need.

Transforming a Community Asset into a Hunger-Fighting Hub

Outgrowing the Current Facility

The Bellevue Food Pantry's current location on Hancock Street has become increasingly cramped, limiting its ability to effectively serve the growing number of individuals and families seeking assistance. With a small staff and limited space, the pantry has had to turn away volunteers and restrict the amount of food it can distribute. "Right now we just give people two bags of food that is prefilled by our volunteers," explained Pantry Manager Deanna Wagner. "Other limitations are lack of space for volunteers, so we have to turn people away unfortunately."

Securing a New Home

In a significant development, the Bellevue Food Pantry has acquired the former Bellevue Public Library building on Lincoln Road. This new facility, purchased for $500,000, will provide the pantry with over 20,000 square feet of space – a vast improvement from the current 1,000 square feet. "This is a milestone to get the building," said Executive Director Aaron Bowen. "So, we will spend the next couple of years with our bringing everybody to the table capital campaign to raise the funds necessary to renovate and have a full functioning pantry that really, truly meets the growing need in the community."

Transforming the Former Library into a Community Asset

The decision to repurpose the former library building is a strategic one, as the location is well-known and easily accessible to the community. "Since 1975, the library has been a place of safety and support and nourishment, so we love the symmetry of coming into this place that is already known to transform it into truly a community asset," said Bowen. The new facility will feature a walk-in fridge and freezers, allowing the pantry to offer a wider variety of fresh food options. Additionally, a community garden will be added, providing a sustainable source of produce for those in need.

Expanding Services and Partnerships

The expanded space will also enable the Bellevue Food Pantry to offer more comprehensive services to its clients. "If somebody needs some help applying for WIC or somebody needs help meeting with the VA, we can connect them with that resource actually in the new pantry instead of having to send them out somewhere else," explained Wagner. This "one-stop-shop" approach will make it easier for individuals to access the support they need, streamlining the process and reducing barriers to assistance.

Addressing the Growing Need in the Community

The Bellevue Food Pantry's move to a larger facility comes at a critical time, as the organization has seen a steady increase in the number of people seeking its services. Currently, the pantry serves up to 1,400 people per month, with that figure rising to as many as 1,700 in recent times. "Poverty is highest in this area of Sarpy County," said Bowen, underscoring the importance of the pantry's work in supporting the local community.The Bellevue Food Pantry's expansion represents a significant step forward in its mission to combat food insecurity and provide vital resources to those in need. With a larger, more functional facility and the ability to offer expanded services, the organization is poised to make an even greater impact on the lives of its neighbors. This transformation of a community asset into a hunger-fighting hub is a testament to the pantry's dedication and the resilience of the Bellevue community.