In a heartwarming display of community collaboration, the Middleport Food Pantry has found a new home, thanks to the generosity of the Hartland Bible Church in Gasport. This relocation not only provides the pantry with a more accessible and accommodating space, but also opens up new opportunities to serve the residents of Royalton and Hartland in need.

Empowering the Community, One Bag of Groceries at a Time

A Sanctuary for the Underserved

The Middleport Food Pantry's journey has been one of resilience and adaptability. Originally operating out of a woman's garage in the 1980s, the pantry has since found a home in various locations, including St. Stephen's Parish Hall. Now, with the generous offer from Hartland Bible Church, the pantry has settled into a new space that not only meets the needs of the community but also provides a welcoming environment for those seeking assistance.The church's decision to offer the former gas station building at 27 State Street was driven by a recognition of the lack of resources for youth in the area. "There's nothing for kids to do after school in a small town," explained Pastor Jon Goodwin. "Now they can come here and enjoy various activities and programs after school." This dual purpose of the building – serving as both a community hub and a food pantry – exemplifies the church's commitment to holistic support for the residents of Middleport and the surrounding towns.

Expanding Reach, Enhancing Impact

The relocation of the Middleport Food Pantry has also allowed it to broaden its reach and better serve the community. Dennis McAvoy, who heads the pantry alongside Nancy Huntington, emphasized the importance of finding a space that would be handicap accessible and convenient for the people they serve. The new location at the Hartland Bible Church has proven to be an ideal fit, with the church's assistance in the move making the transition seamless."We moved everything in one and a half hours on a Saturday morning," McAvoy recounted, highlighting the efficiency and dedication of the volunteers involved. This swift and organized move has enabled the pantry to continue its vital work without interruption, ensuring that families in need can continue to access the resources they require.

Fostering Collaboration and Community Support

The Middleport Food Pantry's success is a testament to the power of community collaboration. Beyond the support from Hartland Bible Church, the pantry has also received invaluable assistance from other local organizations and individuals.Cheryl Dean, for instance, plays a crucial role in handling the pantry's finances, ensuring that the donations and resources are managed effectively. Additionally, the Royalton-Hartland School District's agricultural program has been a consistent supplier of fresh produce, further enhancing the pantry's offerings."We have some very generous people, some who donate monthly," shared Nancy Huntington, underscoring the importance of the community's ongoing support. This generosity extends beyond financial contributions, with volunteers also playing a vital role in the pantry's operations.

Serving with Compassion and Dignity

The Middleport Food Pantry's commitment to serving the community with compassion and dignity is evident in its policies and practices. Families are allowed up to two bags of groceries twice a month, ensuring that the resources are distributed equitably and meet the needs of those they serve.Moreover, the pantry's open-door policy extends to all residents of Royalton and Hartland, as well as those in neighboring Gasport who may have a need. This inclusive approach reflects the pantry's dedication to supporting the broader community, regardless of geographic boundaries."Any resident who lives in the towns of Royalton or Hartland can take advantage of the Food Pantry," McAvoy explained. "They do cooperate with Gasport if someone has a need." This collaborative spirit and willingness to assist those in need, regardless of their location, is a testament to the pantry's unwavering commitment to its mission.

Sustaining the Pantry's Future

As the Middleport Food Pantry settles into its new home, the focus now turns to ensuring its long-term sustainability and growth. The pantry's leadership, including McAvoy and Huntington, are always on the lookout for volunteers and welcome donations of non-expired food items."We are always looking for volunteers and are always happy to accept donations of food that is not expired," McAvoy stated, highlighting the ongoing need for community support. This call to action resonates with the broader community, as evidenced by the generous contributions and partnerships that have already been established.Pastor Goodwin's sentiment captures the essence of the Middleport Food Pantry's journey: "We love this community," he said, reflecting the church's commitment to being a steadfast partner in the pantry's mission. As the pantry continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community, this unwavering support from the Hartland Bible Church and the broader community will undoubtedly be a driving force in its continued success.