Food distribution is monthly, 9:00 a.m.--11:00 a.m. typically the last Monday of the month. Holidays may alter this schedule. Eligibility requirements: Clients are required to complete a self-declaration of need form. Our food pantry was formed in 1991 as a nonprofit, interfaith cooperative, involving ten local congregations of the Big Spring Inter-Church Council. We have a six-member board of di
rectors, one paid employee, and 90-100 volunteers. Since January 2010 we have leased space from Big Spring United Lutheran Church, with a 1,120 square foot storage area and 1,720 square feet of usable, handicapped-accessible distribution area. To store perishables, we have a walk-in cooler and freezer. We distribute 30-35 different nutritious items, including fresh produce and meats. We receive food and cash donations from churches, individuals, businesses, and food drives. We serve 110-160 families each month, which includes 20% senior citizens and 30% children and youth. We partner with the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. Since 1992, they have provided more than 390,000 pounds of nutritious foods, translating to more than 304,000 meals for individuals and families facing food insecurity. We also partner with the Cumberland County Aging and Community Services, which is the lead agency for the PA Department of Agriculture for Cumberland County Food Banks. We are one of eight food banks in Cumberland County. Big Spring Area Food Bank follows all policies and procedures set by the PA Department of Agriculture, which is not based on faith for a client to receive food assistance.
