Food Pantry

The Food Pantry provides help for those in need througout Henderson County. 

Included in an article writen by Dick Dwelle titled "Food Pantry Talks"

the following speaks highly of the Henderson County Food Pantry and provides

informative resources and information.

"Since 1981 when the Henderson County Food Pantry was established, it has been the next thing to a lifesaver for thousands of families. The “Food Pantry” as it is known today evolved from the Department of Human Services’ need to have a place for families to obtain immediate food, families that did not meet the qualifications to receive Human Services assistance or the benefits would be several days away. The churches were the main source to which people could turn for help. There was no control or coordination between churches over the distribution of food.

Mrs. Helen Wilbanks, Chairman of the Commissions on Social Concerns at the First Methodist Church in Athens, came to the forefront as a resource ready and willing to work with the Department of Human Services to help families who had an immediate need for food. She bought groceries and distributed them to clients. Steve Grant, representing the First Presbyterian Church, became an active participant and was instrumental in establishing the Pantry."

FPC-Athens has many members who volunteer each week to help distribute food to those in our communities that need the extra help.  We have food drives throughout the year, along with our MDO kids collecting through their "Sharing Box" from October to December.  This is a lesson that is taught about sharing with those who need it.  They have special collections through these months and then they get to give it to the workers at the food pantry to distribute to the different families. Such a great lesson we could all learn.

If you would like to learn more about the Food Pantry or how you can help them, please contact the church office at 903-675-3530 or email us at secretaryfpcathens@gmail.com