Riceville is a tremendous example of a community coming together to open their hearts and help those in need. According to Diana Setka, coordinator of the Riceville Food Pantry, seven area churches work together to organize the Riceville Food Pantry and provide food to 464 people–129 of which are children. Members of the Immaculate Conception Church, United Methodist Church, Congregational United Church of Christ, St. Paul Maple Leaf Lutheran Church, David Community Church, Saratoga Community Church and St. Peter Lutheran Church rotate the staffing responsibilities and each church covers the pantry needs for two months out of the year.
Diana says last year the pantry served 132 families by distributing 9660 pounds of food, and in the first five months of 2016 the pantry has served 147 families and has distributed 8077 pounds of food. “The need is definitely higher this year,” said Diana.
“We distribute food based on the size of the family, and patrons can visit the pantry twice a month,” said Diana. Each family receives a pork loin and a voucher for milk and eggs through our local grocery store.”
And, the pantry just got a new freezer thanks to a grant, which means they can store more pork loins. “We cut our loins in half, which is a little less overwhelming for a family and it lets us stretch them out, said Diana. “Each family will get a pork loin ever month, and these pork loins just delivered will last us through February. Our families are so grateful”
