Food insecurity is a pressing issue that affects communities of all sizes, even thriving ones like New Albany. With our booming local economy, growing infrastructure, and expanding school system, you might assume that our community is comfortable and sustained. But like anywhere, we have pockets of need as well. In 2024, the Healthy New Albany Food Pantry has already served nearly 400 families and more than 200,000 meals within the New Albany-Plain Local School District.
Hunger can happen to anyone, and Jennie Wilson, a longtime local resident, has witnessed this firsthand as a dedicated, long-time volunteer with the Pantry.
“People face various challenges that can make it difficult to afford basic necessities like food,” Wilson explains. “It’s a heartbreaking reality that even in our own community, people are making tough choices between paying rent or utilities and putting food on the table.”
Wilson’s experience volunteering at the Pantry has opened her eyes to the diverse backgrounds and circumstances of those who rely on its services. “The need is very real, and it’s important to remember that anyone can find themselves in a situation where they require assistance,” she says.
The Healthy New Albany Food Pantry is an invaluable resource, sustaining families and carrying them through hard times. Without it, our neighbors could find themselves in grave circumstances, even feeling like they have to leave their homes in order to survive. This is a circumstance we see all too often, especially among our seniors and those on a fixed income. Recently, one of our Pantry clients explained their situation.
“As a senior you’d think being able to adapt to change would be inherent and easy, however current economic times make adapting more challenging and difficult. In retirement, I find I need to continue a part-time job to make dollars stretch even to cover rent and utilities. Food cost (sic) is the biggest increase we’ve noticed, and we only shop for what we absolutely need, some days eating only two meals a day and of course, have utilized the support from Food Pantry on appointment dates.”
Like this Pantry client shares, the cost of food and other bills keeps going up, and our Pantry can help families bridge that gap – but not without community support.
During Hunger Action Month in September, Healthy New Albany brought awareness to these issues and called on local businesses and organizations to get involved. Many businesses, including Steiner & Associates, Diley Medical Group New Albany, Barre3 New Albany, Pharmavite, and Orangetheory New Albany hosted food drives. NAPLS high school students also hosted food drives at one of the football games and the water polo team Senior Night. The New Albany Kroger also hosted a Scavenger Hunt, which brought folks from across the community together to donate.
Collectively, we gathered 1,500 pounds of shelf stable foods. But more importantly we built lasting connections in the community so that we can keep the Pantry well stocked.
Wilson also emphasizes the importance of volunteering. “Whether it’s donating your time or your money, every contribution makes a difference,” she adds. “It’s about being a good neighbor and helping those in need within our community.”
The Healthy New Albany Food Pantry serves as a reminder that even in seemingly prosperous areas, food insecurity is a persistent problem. By supporting this essential resource, we can work together to ensure that everyone in our community has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.