You may ask yourself why we need funds to operate. While we do get some things for free or for discounted rates, food pantries and most non-profits do not get everything for free. Just like any other business, we need money to stay open and keep operating.
Loudon Food Pantry has one full time paid person on salary that runs the pantry, keeps the volunteers informed and busy, and make sure all tasks are done in a consistent manner. She is here five days per week and often works more than 40 hours per week. Everyone else is volunteer. Volunteers are the backbone of any non-profit.
The food pantry needs approximately $91 per day to keep running ($2,756 per month). These expenses are included in that figure: supplies (labels for labeling guns, produce bags, ink cartridges, paper, pens, etc.) labeling guns, money to purchase food, fundraising expenses, postage, dues and memberships, website hosting, payroll, workman’s comp. insurance, general liability insurance, telephone, internet, repairs on equipment and/or shelves, etc.
We are extremely fortunate that Dave and Tracy Huckins (our landlords) donate the spaces that we use for our pantry. This means we have no rent, heating, or electric we need to budget for. Thank you, Dave and Tracy for being so generous!
So, there will always be a need for funds.