Local Food Pantries
Alternative Gift Market
Venice Presbyterian Church supports the food distribution programs of South County Food Pantry, Community Assistance Ministries, Center of Hope, and Laurel Civic Association in their efforts to feed the hungry of South Sarasota County. Gifts purchased in this category will be divided evenly among these four Mission Partners.
Website & Brochure
What We Do
VPC supports four food pantries serving people living in Englewood, Laurel, North Port and Venice:
CAM (Community Assistance Ministry)
Center of Hope
Laurel Civic Association
South County Food Pantry
These food pantries help feed those in need in Sarasota County. Donations in this category are divided evenly among these four Mission Partners.
How It’s Done
This is accomplished by members who bring food each Sunday and through our bi-annual food drives. It is estimated that we donate 15,000 units of food each year plus an additional $6,000 so the pantries can purchase much needed food from All Faiths Food Bank. We also assist Laurel Civic Association during the annual Postal Worker’s food drive every May.
| Food Donation Suggestions | |
|---|---|
| 100% Juice Drinks | Fruit cups |
| Applesauce Packages | Granola bars |
| Baby food | Low-sodium soups & stews |
| Brown or white rice | Oatmeal |
| Canned tuna/chicken/meat | Pasta & sauce |
| Canned, low-sodium vegetables | Peanut butter |
| Canola or olive oil | Popcorn |
| Cereals | Salt & pepper |
| Crackers | Shelf-stable milk |
| Dry or canned beans | Unsalted nuts |
Volunteer
There are numerous opportunities to volunteer in this critical area of need in our community. Volunteers are needed to distribute food, process donations, stock shelves, and check in clients. Almost anyone can find a place to offer his/her services. There are also opportunities to serve during the semiannual food drives as well as the Postal Worker’s food drive.
Donate Food
We are always in need of non-perishable food items. If you would like to donate, please bring your food that is within the “best by” date. All food donations are passed directly to our mission partners, who distribute them to their clients. Please consider donating to help prevent hunger in our area.
Your support helps meet the needs of families in South Sarasota County. Monetary donations are used to purchase food for our local food pantries.