The summer months in Kentucky often lead to a decline in the number of clients that food pantries serve across the commonwealth. This can be caused by several factors such as the free lunch programs that service young people in the various communities. It may also be in part, that small family gardens supplement food sources in many counties.
In June, the Water Into Wine Food Pantry served 480 clients. In July, the number of those served rose to 575 families. That marks an 19.8% increase of assistance over this past month. Although it is too early to tell is the trend will continue, there are several reasons being looked at that may have caused the rise in July. First, during a sluggish economy, many families must make financial choices. What will their capital be spent on. It is in July, that many families must make a choice of what to spend on school clothing and supplies for the restart of school, verses what they spend on groceries. The pantry in this case becomes a supplement. Other factors include a slow local economy, reduced benefits to the poor, and a reduction of small gardens by local weather. All these factors must be considered when looking at what drives the market. Whether or not that the sudden spike is long term; or just a one month surge, will be determined in the upcoming months. It will require strategic planning at the pantry level to prepare for a rise in clientele.
0 Comments
If you are a regular member of the Water Into Wine Food Pantry, you are well aware that during the summer months, the pantry will often increase its distribution amounts at random times outside of regularly scheduled pantry dates. This is accomplished by several factors.
First, during the summer months, we receive much more produce and fruits. Local farmers often grow amounts that assist in feeding their families, while commercial farmers continue their same production rates. When the markets become flooded and retail no longer has the customer base, the free items often flood the pantry. Second reason, in the summertime produce and fruits spoil quicker in the weather conditions that are found in the environment. This shortened shelf life forces farmers and retail to move inventory quicker during this time to avoid spoilage. Third, the weather is more conducive to moving products from farm to shelves and from shelves to pantries, and eventually to your table. Good weather allows the transportation market to increase. No matter what the reason, summer always is greener and more full in your local food pantries. |
AuthorMy name is Jeff Tackett. I work at the office here at Lakefront Church of God. I handle technology and other office administrative duties. Archives
October 2019
Categories |