Amid increasing food insecurity, West Chester Food Cupboard is expanding its services so families can stay fed. Since last October, the cupboard has used its recently introduced express service to 800 members a month, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News.  

The facility has since expanded by 5,000 square feet to accommodate the twice-a-week express services. 5,000 shoppers are served annually by the food cupboard, which operates as a small grocery store. Over the past fiscal year, 1.6 million pounds were distributed to families around the region.  

The express services are meant for recipients to supplement their monthly supply. It is considered a “choice operation” pantry which allows them to select culturally friendly and nutritious food.

“We try very hard to make this a welcoming place with a friendly atmosphere,” said the pantry’s vice president Rob Necasulmer, “We want families to think they are coming through a Giant. Kids don’t realize they’re not at a grocery store.” 

In addition to food, families also have access to toilet paper, pet food, and other personal goods.  

The pantry is run by about 200 volunteers and relies on food and cash donations from the community.  

Read more about the West Chester food pantry in The Daily Local News.  

More about West Chester Food Cupboard.