The Southeast Arkansas College Food Pantry will celebrate its first anniversary Thursday, March 14.
From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., SEARK will host a Food Pantry Birthday Bash. Super 1 Foods has donated refreshments and the First Baptist Church of White Hall will be grilling hot dogs and burgers, according to a news release.
In less than one year, the SEARK Food Pantry has distributed 509 boxes of food, assisted 1,386 individuals and made more than 12,000 meals available to members of the SEARK community who are in need. The pantry also makes small “Brain Food Bags” which are available throughout the campus for students who need a quick snack, according to the release.
“The ability to help out the members of our community is incredible and the giving spirit of so many have made this possible,” said Tami Lambert, Career Pathways community outreach coordinator and food pantry lead. “Through the generosity of volunteers giving their time and gifts of both items and money we are able to offer this service.”
SEARK President Steven Bloomberg recognized the need of the food pantry.
“To learn when you are hungry is hard, but to learn when you are chronically hungry is almost impossible,” Bloomberg said. “When my wife, Lynette, and I first arrived, one of the first projects we committed to make happen was the food pantry.”
Bloomberg also applauded others in the effort.
“Due to the hard work of partners and volunteers, this pantry is a reality and makes a daily difference in the lives of those in our campus community,” he said.
The SEARK Food Pantry is a member of the Arkansas Food Bank and has partnered with L&R Distributors and Tyson Foods.
“These partnerships along with countless donations from both individuals and local businesses help make resources available,” according to the release.
Details: Tami Lambert, 870-850-4823.
