The Lord’s Pantry of Downingtown has been preserving the message of “no one should suffer from hunger” for the past 60 years, writes Nick Iadonisi for 6abc.
What started as a small church outreach in 1965 soon evolved into a place to help families in need in the Exton, Lionville, and Downingtown areas.
The Lord’s Pantry currently has over 700 registered families. It’s a first-come, first-served process as they help clients in the order that they call. Each family gets about two grocery carts’ worth of food with balanced ingredients like vegetables, dairy, meats, fruits, and more.
The pantry is run on donations as well as support from local grocers such as Wegmans, Crop’s Fresh Marketplace, and Kimberton Whole Foods.
Additionally, they offer assistance programs with rent and/or utilities.
Executive director Jan Leaf has been with the fully volunteer pantry for 35 years.
“When you can keep someone from becoming homeless or having their utilities shut off, it goes a long way,” said Leaf.
The Lord’s Pantry recently had its 60th anniversary event, with ticket proceeds going towards a new refrigerated van.
“We’re hoping this mission continues, and it should,” she said.
Read more about the mission of the Lord’s Pantry in Downingtown and how you can help at 6abc.
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