Members of Wallkill Lodge No. 627 surprised the Montgomery Food Pantry last month with a $3,000 check, providing the pantry with ample funding to feed residents facing food insecurity. The lodge raised these funds through its 2024 Annual Chicken BBQ on August 17, including 30 meal sponsors that will feed even more people.

“We raised the money through our Chicken BBQ in James Olley Park last August. We also received sponsorships from 30 businesses in Walden, which will provide meals to 30 people,” said Worshipful Master Kyle Williams of the lodge. “We just want to build relationships and give back to our community.”

The pantry’s staff were thrilled with the donation and thanked the lodge for its generosity. The money will go a long way toward meeting the town’s growing food demands and provide much-needed relief to hundreds of local families and their children.

“With the help of donations such as yours, the pantry is able to provide emergency food to an average of 325 families a month in the Valley Central School District, including over 400 children under the age of 18. The need at the pantry is greater than ever due to the current economic situation, with many new families signing up each month,” said MFP President Judy Gridley in her letter to the lodge. “We sincerely appreciate your contribution, making it possible for us to provide sustenance, not only of food but also hope to those we are privileged to serve.”

Interested in donating or sponsoring a food drive for the MFP? The pantry is currently in need of baby formula, canned goods, cereal, coffee, dry pasta, fruit, sauces, jams, peanut butter, pet food, rice, and tea. For more information, call (845) 457-9673, email maureenr1027@yahoo.com, or visit facebook.com/feedingallthepeople/.