Midsomer Norton Community Pantry What is a Community Pantry? It is an area where non-perishable foods and items (e.g some toiletries) are stored in plastic boxes which are accessible for anyone in need to help themselves. It is not a larder where perishable items are kept (as at Paulton Methodist Church) There is no need to be ‘referred’ by a ‘professional’ (as is required for Foodbank), people can help themselves at any time, day or night. It is kept stocked by local donations, be that from church members or members of the community. It is free with no questions asked. It is not ‘staffed’ at certain times so that people can come and go anonymously. The only staffing would be for volunteers to check stock on a regular basis. Location It is located in an accessible place, to the right hand side of the church doors. It consists of shelving racks below the windows. The difference between the Pantry and the Foodbank For someone to get food from the Foodbank they have to be referred by a professional and cannot go more than 3 times. They also become ‘known’ which can cause embarrassment to them; The Pantry is open to anyone 24/7 with no referrals necessary and no limit on how often they can use it. it is anonymous so there is no potential embarrassment for the user. How can you help?
Virgie Lewis is our Co-ordinator so please contact her - info@msnmcc.org Churches Together The local churches share together in various events and projects. Local Community Projects The Church plays a strong part in projects such as the Midsomer Norton Carnival in November, the Nativity Fayre in December and Midsomer Norton Fayre in June. Food Bank A Christian based service which collects and distributes food for those in need in the local area who are referred by local agencies such as social services, doctors and churches Open the Book Weekly during term time. A team from the Church prepares and presents Bible stories in Primary Schools using materials produced by the OTB organisation. The presenters dress up in costume or use puppets to make the stories visual. Pupils often take part, using prompt cards when they are needed to speak. Other Events The premises are used extensively by church groups and community groups.