Tarkio/Westboro/Fairfax Food Pantry

The Tarkio/Westboro/Fairfax Food Pantry board met Monday, November 6, with 14 members present. Churches represented were: Tarkio – First Christian, Church of God, Good News Church, and Presbyterian; Fairfax – Christian, Methodist, and Presbyterian; and Westboro – Methodist and St. John’s Lutheran Church. Sam O’Riley represented Community Services.

President Cathy Riggins presided over the meeting. In September, 175 individuals representing 56 families were served. In October, 74 individuals representing 37 families were assisted.

Tarkio Renewal will be awarding the food pantry $1,000 for necessary improvements that are being made on the east side of the building.

In the month of December, coupons for hams will be distributed according to the family size. Households of one to three will receive a coupon for half a ham. Households with four or more will receive a coupon for a whole ham. Clients must take the coupons to Tarkio Hy-Vee to be redeemed.

Board members will open the pantry on December 7, 9, 14, and 16 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. On Tuesday, December 7, the pantry will also be open from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. In January 2024 community volunteers will open the food pantry January 16, 18, 23, and 25.

If schools are closed due to inclement weather, the food pantry is also closed. If the schools experience a two-hour delay, the food pantry will also delay opening until 10;00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

The cost of food has risen significantly. Donations of food and/or monetary gifts are greatly appreciated especially during the holidays.

The food pantry is currently low on the following items: tomato juice (46 oz. can), saltine crackers, Jello and instant puddings (small boxes), tomatoes, chili style beans, canned pasta (beefaroni, SpaghettiOs), and beef or chicken pot pies.

The next board meeting will be held January 9, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at the food pantry. It will serve as the corporate yearly meeting and officers will be elected. For information about the food pantry, contact Judy Henson at 816-261-2672. The food pantry is located at 315 Main Street in Tarkio.

Rock Port Food Pantry

The Rock Port Food Pantry is low on the following items: sugar, flour, cooking oil, apricots, beef stew, shampoo, body wash, and dish soap. Items can be taken to the Rock Port United Methodist Church, 211 W. Opp. The food pantry is located in the fellowship hall.

The food pantry will be open Tuesday, November 21, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon; and Tuesday, December 5, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.

Monetary donations may be mailed to the Rock Port Ministerial Alliance, P.O. Box 164, Rock Port, MO 64482.