Have you ever wondered about the forces that mobilize resources against the pressing issue of food insecurity? In the heart of our communities, food banks and food pantries perform an indispensable role, providing immediate relief to those facing the daily threat of hunger.

A food bank operates as a pivotal resource hub. They acquire vast quantities of food through partnerships with retailers, manufacturers, farmers, and the generosity of public donors. The acquired supplies are safely stored in their extensive warehouse facilities, where they're sorted and often repackaged into smaller, more manageable portions.

But their efforts continue beyond there. Food banks don't typically distribute food directly to individuals. Instead, they form a vast network of connections with more minor local organizations like food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and schools, becoming a lifeline for these establishments. These partner organizations, like us, then distribute the food directly to those in need within our communities.

In our fight against food insecurity, we have formed an invaluable partnership with Roadrunner Food Bank based in Albuquerque, with a dedicated branch in Las Cruces. Their consistent supply of rescued and donated food enables us, along with numerous other pantries, to bring nourishment directly to the tables of those who need it most.

We serve as a food pantry, a crucial link between food banks and our community members. Our Front Food Pantry, located right in the heart of our community, is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 3 pm, offering a range of nutritious food options.

In addition to our pantry, our Soup Kitchen provides a warm and welcoming place for community members to enjoy a meal. Open for breakfast from 8:30 am to 9:30 am and for lunch from 12 pm to 1 pm, we serve wholesome meals that fuel both body and soul. For residents of SPIN, dinner service is also available at their location.

Recognizing that the need for food continues over the weekend, we offer Weekend Snack Bags, designed to provide supplemental nutrition during the pantry's off hours.

And to make our services more accessible, we host a Mobile Food Pantry from 9 am to 10 am every Thursday morning, a service open to anyone registered. For our senior community members 55 and older, we operate a Senior Mobile Food Pantry every third Wednesday of the month, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

In this collective fight against food insecurity, every contribution, every partnership, and every shared meal brings us closer to a hunger-free community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Roadrunner Food Bank, our invaluable partner in this mission. Together, we can foster a network of sustenance and support, ensuring everyone in our community has access to the food they need.

Randy Salars
Silver City Gospel Mission Director