The Tarkio/Fairfax/Westboro Food Pantry board met Monday, November 9, 2020, with 11 members present. Churches represented were Fairfax Methodist and Baptist; Tarkio Baptist, Church of God, and First Christian; and Westboro Methodist and St. John’s Lutheran.

In September, 106 individuals representing 52 households were served. In October, 106 individuals representing 51 households were assisted.

In December, coupons for hams will be distributed according to the size of the families. One to three members will receive a coupon for a half of a ham. For families with four or more, a coupon for a whole ham will be given. Clients must take the coupons to the Tarkio HyVee to be redeemed.

With the increased COVID-19 activity in our county and the upcoming winter months, the pantry finds itself in need of volunteers. Many who have so faithfully served the pantry can no longer serve and they are asking for volunteers to help open the food pantry. If you are interested in helping this important mission please contact Judy Henson at 816-261-2672. Curbside service continues to be used to help ensure the safety of patrons and volunteers.

Clients are also reminded of the inclement weather policy. If area schools are closed due to inclement weather, the food pantry will also be closed. If schools have a 10:00 a.m. late start due to inclement weather, the food pantry will also open at 10:00 a.m. and remain open until 12:00 noon.

Items that are currently needed include sugar, pineapple, scalloped or au gratin boxed potatoes, and cans of chili. Monetary donations are always appreciated. The board is most appreciative of all donations as well as the efforts of the volunteers that make this ministry possible.

Food Panty board members will open the pantry in December on Tuesdays, December 8 and 15, and Thursdays, December 10 and 17, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m.  On Tuesday, December 8, it will also be open from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. In January, the food pantry will return to the regular schedule and will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, the third and fourth weeks of January.

The next meeting of the food pantry board will be Tuesday,  January 12, at 9:30 a.m. The food pantry is located at 315 Main Street in Tarkio.