Lacey Michael
Elmore Autauga News
Wednesday morning, the Welcome Food Pantry opened its doors to the community for the Morning Brew with the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce. Guests were invited to network with other business leaders, city officials, and business representatives to enjoy coffee and donuts before heading into work.
Brenda Dennis, President of the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce, welcomed those in attendance alongside Board Chair Cadi Mills. Executive Director of the Welcome Food Pantry, Michael Lambert, was then introduced and opened his remarks by recognizing the organizationโs current board president and pastor, DJ Stinard, as well as former president, Col. Philip Harris.
Col. Harris played a pivotal role in guiding the food pantry to where it stands today. During the morning meeting, Lambert announced that the Event Center within the Welcome Food Pantry will soon be named in Col. Harrisโs honor, with a commemorative plaque recognizing his dedication and lasting impact.
The Event Center serves as a space where families and individuals not only receive the food they need but also find fellowship and spiritual support. Various churches and groups utilize the event space for gatherings and meetings. It provides a place for those in need, along with volunteers and pantry members, to come together and be prayed over during difficult times. Col. Harris was visibly touched by the tribute.
The Welcome Food Pantry is currently serving West Elmore, but can also help other counties as needed.
Stinard stated, โRight now it is West Elmore, but who knows what the Lord wants to do?โ
Both Lambert and Stinard emphasized what this new location and its growth capabilities can do for the community with more volunteers.
โWe have the capability of doing a whole lot more, and we have a facility that can hold a lot more,โ stated Stinard.
โWe had 7,634 visits through this facility last year,โ said Lambert.
He also noted that a total of 899,000 pounds of food was donated last year. Families or individuals who need food can come into the facility, grab a shopping cart, and shop the aisles that are color-coded, organized, and categorized for their choosing. This setup allows for less waste as the shoppers can pick and choose what foods are best for them. The amount of food and the physical ability to help load, unload, organize, and then donate to families in need speaks volumes for the capabilities of the organization and the need for more volunteers in this community.
The Welcome Food Pantry is located at 1881 I-65 Service Road in Millbrook. Those interested in donating their time as volunteers can do so during the pantryโs operating hours, which are every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
