The Taylorville Food Pantry is approaching a notable milestone: It will reach a million pounds of food received from partners through the Food Rescue program.  The initiative has lasted for over a decade.  The pantry has nearly quadrupled its contingent of partners supplying food which may otherwise have been disposed of. 

Amy Hagen, a co-coordinator with the Taylorville Food Pantry, says the initiative is important both for reducing food waste and feeding those in need.

She adds the program’s newest partners include the recently-opened Dollar General in Edinburg and Starbucks in Taylorville.

Pam Moses, another co-coordinator with the Taylorville Food Pantry, says businesses typically initiate the conversation by sharing what and how much they can donate.

She goes on to note that the program and the evolving food stock they receive ensures that from one week to another, a variety of food is available for those who need it. 

Separate from Food Rescue, the Taylorville Food Pantry is ready to welcome the help of multiple local organizations through their food drives.  The local Boy Scouts troop will begin their drive this month. 

Then on Mother’s Day weekend, local letter carriers will hold their Stamp Out Hunger campaign. 

The Taylorville Food Pantry is located at 1429 East Main Cross.  They are open Tuesdays from 8:30-10 a.m., Thursdays from 5:30-7 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:30-9:30 a.m.  More information is available at www.taylorvillefoodpantry.com or by calling them at (217) 820-2651.

Amy Hagen and Pam Moses appeared as guests on the WTIM Morning Show.