Food pantry to open in Perry Township

 PERRY TOWNSHIP - With unemployment, layoffs and a stretch of hard economic times hurting many, a local church plans to provide more than prayers to help.

 Parishioners at Perry United Methodist Church are opening a food pantry the last two Saturdays of every month beginning Jan. 31.

The church, at 3250 E. Breese Road, will welcome anyone who has an income of less than 200 percent of the federal government's guideline. For a household of four, that would be $42,400.

"I can't think of a need greater, especially in our economic times with a lot of people laid off or unemployed," said Bill Epps, who is helping the church organize the pantry.

The 200 percent of the poverty guideline may seem high compared to similar programs, but the intent is also to help those who are struggling. For example, someone might have to get a car repaired so he can get to work, but if the choice is the repair or food on the table, it creates a tough situation, Epps said.

"Some needs are temporary, some are more long term," he said.

Those seeking help must provide photo identification the first time they use the pantry. They also must have proof of residency, such as a gas bill, and Social Security cards for ever member of their households. Social Security numbers will not be retained, Epps said.

The pantry primarily will serve southeast Allen County.

The pantry will operate from 9 a.m. to noon, but people wanting to drop off food or to make a donation can make arrangements by calling the church.

A family will be permitted to visit the pantry once a month, Epps said.

"It's our objective to supply each family with a three-day supply of food on that visitation," he said.

The church has acquired refrigerators and freezers to maintain perishable foods. All food except those that have expired will be accepted, he said.

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 To make a monetary donation to the food pantry send a check to Perry United Methodist Church, 3250 E. Breese Road, Lima, OH 45806. Note in the memo of the check is for the food pantry. Arrangements for a donation of food can be made by calling the church at 419-221-3250 and leaving a message.