Albany Family Launches Urgent Free Food Pantry Amid Crisis
UPDATE: A family in Albany has launched a free mini food pantry to support those in need, responding to the urgent crisis caused by government shutdowns. The Proctor family, led by Jordan Proctor and her husband Ben, has transformed a simple shelf into a vital resource for local residents struggling to feed their families.
The food pantry, located on Stuart Avenue near the intersection with Pearl Avenue, has quickly gained popularity as a stop for community members facing food insecurity. “We saw a need and wanted to help,” Jordan Proctor stated. “This makes us feel good, but it’s heartbreaking to see so many people in need.”
With government furloughs affecting many, including Ben Proctor, who has been directly impacted, the family’s initiative has become a beacon of hope. Ben shared, “Since I’ve been furloughed, this has kind of become my job. We come out here three or four times a day to restock things. It’s really cool to see people react to this; we feel we are helping fill a need.”
The Proctors set up the pantry using a shelf from their storage and a borrowed gazebo, complete with lights for nighttime access. They are collecting donations from the community, which has been essential for keeping the pantry stocked. “All of this stuff was purchased using money that was donated by the community,” Ben added, highlighting the incredible support they have received.
Local residents like Rodney Jones and Carlos Cody have visited the pantry to pick up necessities. “There is a great need in our community and all over the country,” Jones said. “I commend these kind people for what they’re doing.”
The pantry not only provides food but also serves as a gathering point for residents to come together. Sheneka Moore, an employee at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, stopped by to donate after seeing the pantry. “I think this is just an amazing idea,” she remarked.
Despite concerns from skeptics about potential misuse, Ben Proctor reported that the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with most visitors taking only what they genuinely need. “It’s been great really; people are grateful to have this opportunity,” he stated.
As the Proctor family continues to operate this essential service, they hope to expand their efforts. Jordan expressed a desire to add more shelves to increase the pantry’s capacity. “We just wish we could do more,” she said. “That’s the plan, eventually.”
The family remains committed to sustaining the mini pantry for the foreseeable future, encouraging anyone interested in contributing to call (229) 349-4948 for more information on donations or supplies.
This initiative is a shining example of community solidarity amid challenging times, emphasizing the importance of helping one another regardless of background or circumstances. The Proctor family’s free food pantry is not just a response to a crisis; it’s a testament to the strength and compassion of the Albany community.
