The Salvation Army St. Thomas Corps has opened a new community food pantry at the Winston Raymo Recreation Center to expand access to food assistance for residents facing financial hardship, according to a press release issued Thursday.
The pantry will operate by appointment only and will serve individuals and families experiencing food insecurity due to job loss, rising living costs, medical expenses, or emergency situations, according to the press release.
“This food pantry is a direct response to the growing needs we see every week in our community,” said Major Tim Lavenbein, corps officer of The Salvation Army St. Thomas Corps. “No one should have to choose between paying rent, keeping the lights on, and putting food on the table.”
Major Migdalia Lavenbein, also a corps officer, said the pantry is intended to provide assistance in a respectful and dignified setting.
“We want every person who comes through our doors or visits this pantry to know they are not alone,” she said. “This pantry is about compassion, dignity, and neighbors helping neighbors.”
Eligible households must be residents of St. Thomas and demonstrate financial need. Applicants are asked to provide a photo ID, proof of residency, and household size information. Documentation is encouraged but not required, and no one will be denied service solely for lack of paperwork, the press release stated.
Households may receive pantry assistance once every 30 days, depending on supply availability and community demand. Food items will vary based on donations and inventory, the release stated.
Appointments are scheduled by phone through The Salvation Army St. Thomas Corps. Interested residents can call 340-776-0070 during weekday business hours to apply and receive check-in instructions. Walk-in service is not guaranteed, the release stated.
The Salvation Army is also seeking donations and volunteers to support the pantry’s ongoing operations. Community members interested in contributing can contact the organization by phone, the release stated.
The Salvation Army has provided food assistance, disaster relief, youth programming, and social services for more than a century and continues to serve residents across St. Thomas through its local corps, it stated.
