In March, when COVID-19 quickly became a threat to communities across the nation, our network of partner agencies adapted to continue serving. Among them, Central Pantry began using a drive-thru to distribute food. Nearly six months later, that effort continues, allowing people seeking help to do it safely.
The pantry, found on Big Bear Blvd. in Columbia, is owned and operated by The Food Bank. With more people staying home, families facing new financial struggles, and other challenges, Central Pantry has served more than 45,000 Boone County residents since March. In that time, the pantry has distributed 2 million pounds of food, almost all through the drive-thru method.
When someone comes to Central Pantry for help, they can drive up to the door, answer a few quick questions, and have boxes of food loaded into their vehicle by volunteers. The method is safe but requires more labor and preparation to use. What goes in the boxes must be decided daily, depending on the supplies Central Pantry has on hand. Then, packages must be assembled ahead of time for easier distribution.
"It is a difficult, but necessary change," said Shannon Stokes, Food Bank chief of programs. "By using a drive-thru, the people we're serving, our staff and partners are safer. It is how we're able to keep operating at such a high level during the pandemic."
For most of the past several months and continuing today, men and women of the Missouri National Guard have been on hand to help with food distribution. Central Pantry Manager Holli DeWess said the pantry could not maintain the same hours it does now without their help.