Micropantry at First Presbyterian in Winnebago

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISTINE SCHWEITZ The Gazette
Winnebago’s First Presbyterian Church offers a “micropantry” for the community when they are in need. It is always available. Pictured with the small pantry are elder Terry Schweitz (left), who installed it for the church, and Pastor Lisa Lopez-Meyer.

People driving or walking past First Presbyterian Church at 208 W. Winnebago Street in Winnebago will notice bold signs pointing to a “Micropantry.” The pantry is a weatherproof, two-shelf cabinet, mounted on an outside wall, containing food and other needs.

Several months ago, church elders met to discuss how the church could better serve its neighbors. They sought input from community leaders and learned there is a need for food assistance, due to the rising cost of food and other essentials. The elders were already aware that Winnebago families had to travel to Rockford or Pecatonica to make use of pantries and food banks. The committee wanted to offer an additional source of help in their own community. After many discussions, it was decided a micropantry was a viable option. The decision was based on the church’s location near Dorothy Simon Elementary School, where the pantry can be seen from the playground and the school’s drop-off and pick-up lines. It is also visible from highly-traveled streets.

One of the elders, Terry Schweitz, installed the pantry and it was ready for use in late August. It is accessible year-round at all hours. Both residents and those passing through town are invited to take items any time they experience a need. There is also information about additional food sources. The pantry is filled by donations from the church and caring neighbors. The wish list includes peanut butter, jelly, shelf-stable milk, canned tuna and chicken, granola and energy bars, macaroni and cheese, and canned meals and vegetables.

Pastor Lisa Lopez-Meyer commented, “We want to have good food that you would feed your own family, with plenty of protein, as well as snacks for children and teenagers to have on-the-go.”

Small personal care items are also accepted.

Donations may be placed directly into the pantry or taken into the church when it is open and placed in the “Micropantry Overflow” cabinet.

“Some wonderful volunteers check our micropantry each week to note what has been taken and refill the shelves from the overflow,” the pastor explained.

For more information, call the church office at 815-335-2051 or Pastor Lisa Lopez-Meyer at 815-742-7503.