The Manna Food Pantry located in Mendenhall is growing. Director of Lighthouse Community Development Charity Jones said the pantry feeds approximately 600 people consistently.
She said, “That is a significant increase and we are trying to partner with churches and members of the community to become hunger heroes.”
By becoming a hunger hero the partner is pledging to donate $5 a month to the pantry. Jones said that the donations will help with expenses and improve the food distribution operation. Jones showed excitement for what Manna is doing for the Simpson County community. She said, “We have partnered with Gleaning Network and we have received nearly 50,000 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables.”
Manna has also partnered with Up in Farms food hub. Up in Farms helps Mississippi’s small- and medium-sized farms meet the standards of commercial buyers, plan and operate profitable businesses, and satisfy emerging federal and state standards for food safety and security.
The Up in Farms program is a paid community support agriculture project. The program not only helps support local farmers, but it is also a social entrepreneurship that will help support Mana Food Pantry. Many of Simpson County’s farmers are involved in the program.
Manna is a satellite location for community support agriculture and will be providing fresh farm packs for $30 per week.
Jones also highlighted other contributors to the pantry’s success. She said, “We continue to work with Walmart in Magee and they have donated nearly 1,500 pounds a week in produce, meat, and grain to feed families.” She also thanked Tammy Layton and Laureen Lockhart of the Mississippi State Extension Service for volunteering and providing knowledge on healthy eating.
Jones said, “Any churches, you groups, etc. who would like to volunteer are more than welcomed.”
For more information on how to get involved with Manna Food Pantry contact Charity Jones at
manna@lcdofms.org.
